Apparatus and Method for Low-Temperature Training of Shape Memory Alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Swanger, A. M.; Fesmire, J. E.; Trigwell, S.; Gibson, T. L.; Williams, M. K.; Benafan, O.

2015-01-01

An apparatus and method for the low-temperature thermo-mechanical training of shape memory alloys (SMA) has been developed. The experimental SMA materials are being evaluated as prototypes for applicability in novel thermal management systems for future cryogenic applications. Alloys providing two-way actuation at cryogenic temperatures are the chief target. The mechanical training regimen was focused on the controlled movement of rectangular strips, with S-bend configurations, at temperatures as low as 30 K. The custom holding fixture included temperature sensors and a low heat-leak linear actuator with a magnetic coupling. The fixture was mounted to a Gifford-McMahon cryocooler providing up to 25 W of cooling power at 20 K and housed within a custom vacuum chamber. Operations included both training cycles and verification of shape memory movement. The system design and operation are discussed. Results of the training for select prototype alloys are presented.

Recoverable stress induced two-way shape memory effect on NiTi surface using laser-produced shock wave

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seyitliyev, Dovletgeldi; Li, Peizhen; Kholikov, Khomidkhodza; Grant, Byron; Thomas, Zachary; Alal, Orhan; Karaca, Haluk E.; Er, Ali O.

2017-02-01

The surfaces of Ni50Ti50 shape memory alloys (SMAs) were patterned by laser scribing. This method is more simplistic and efficient than traditional indentation techniques, and has also shown to be an effective method in patterning these materials. Different laser energy densities ranging from 5 mJ/pulse to 56 mJ/pulse were used to observe recovery on SMA surface. The temperature dependent heat profiles of the NiTi surfaces after laser scribing at 56 mJ/pulse show the partially-recovered indents, which indicate a "shape memory effect (SME)" Experimental data is in good agreement with theoretical simulation of laser induced shock wave propagation inside NiTi SMAs. Stress wave closely followed the rise time of the laser pulse to its peak values and initial decay. Further investigations are underway to improve the SME such that the indents are recovered to a greater extent.

Apparatus and method for low-temperature training of shape memory alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Swanger, A. M.; Fesmire, J. E.; Trigwell, S.; Gibson, T. L.; Williams, M. K.; Benafan, O.

2015-12-01

An apparatus and method for the low-temperature thermo-mechanical training of shape memory alloys (SMA) has been developed. The experimental SMA materials are being evaluated as prototypes for applicability in novel thermal management systems for future cryogenic applications. Alloys providing two-way actuation at cryogenic temperatures are the chief target. The mechanical training regimen was focused on the controlled movement of rectangular strips, with S-bend configurations, at temperatures as low as 30 K. The custom holding fixture included temperature sensors and a low heat-leak linear actuator with a magnetic coupling. The fixture was mounted to a Gifford-McMahon cryocooler providing up to 25 W of cooling power at 20 K and housed within a custom vacuum chamber. Operations included both training cycles and verification of shape memory movement. The system design and operation are discussed. Results of the training for select prototype alloys are presented.

Constant-torque thermal cycling and two-way shape memory effect in Ni50.3Ti29.7Hf20 torque tubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benafan, O.; Gaydosh, D. J.

2018-07-01

Ni-rich Ni50.3Ti29.7Hf20 (at%) high-temperature shape memory alloy tubes were thermomechanically cycled under constant torques. Four loading configurations were examined that consisted of a series of ascending stresses (low-to-high stress from 0 to 500 MPa outer fiber shear stress), a series of descending stresses (high-to-low stress from 500 to 0 MPa), and a series of thermal cycles at a constant stress of 500 MPa, all using an upper cycle temperature (UCT) of 300 °C. The last configuration consisted of another series of ascending stress levels using a lesser UCT of 250 °C. It was found that the descending series trial stabilized the material response in fewer cycles than the other loading paths. Similarly, cycling at a constant stress of 500 MPa for approximately 100 cycles reached near stabilization (<0.05% residual strain accumulation). Transformation shear strains were the highest and most stable when cycled from lower-to-higher stresses (ascending series), reaching 5.78% at 400 MPa. Cycling to lesser UCTs of 250 °C (versus 300 °C) resulted in the highest two-way shape memory effect (TWSME), measuring over 3.25%. This was attributed to the effect of retained martensite and any transformation dislocations that served to stabilize the TWSME at the lower UCT. Results of this study suggest that different training paths might be used, depending on actuator performance requirements, whether the principal need is to maximize transformation strain, maximize the two-way shear strain, or stabilize the response in fewer cycles.

Artificial muscles made of chiral two-way shape memory polymer fibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Qianxi; Fan, Jizhou; Li, Guoqiang

2016-10-01

In this work, we demonstrate the unusual improvement of the tensile actuation of hierarchically chiral structured artificial muscle made of two-way shape memory polymer (2W-SMP) fiber. Experimental results show that the chemically cross-linked poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) 2W-SMP fibers possess an average negative coefficient of thermal expansion (NCTE) that is at least one order higher than that of the polyethylene fiber used previously. As expected, the increase in axial thermal contraction of the precursor fiber leads to an increase in the recovered torque ( 4.4 Nmm ) of the chiral fiber and eventually in the tensile actuation of the twisted-then-coiled artificial muscle ( 67.81 ±1.82 % ). A mechanical model based on Castigliano's second theorem is proposed, and the calculated result is consistent with the experimental result (64.17% tensile stroke). The model proves the significance of the NCTE and the recovered torque on tensile actuation of the artificial muscle and can be used as a guidance for the future design.

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.

Functional Properties of Porous Ti-48.0 at.% Ni Shape Memory Alloy Produced by Self-Propagating High-Temperature Synthesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Resnina, Natalia; Belyaev, Sergey; Voronkov, Andrew

2018-03-01

The functional behavior of the porous shape memory alloy produced by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis from the Ti-48.0 at.% Ni powder mixture was studied. It was found that a large unelastic strain recovered on unloading and it was not attributed to the pseudoelasticity effect. A decrease in deformation temperatures did not influence the value of strain that recovered on unloading, while the effective modulus decreased from 1.9 to 1.44 GPa. It was found that the porous Ti-48.0 at.% Ni alloy revealed the one-way shape memory effect, where the maximum recoverable strain was 5%. The porous Ti-48.0 at.% Ni alloy demonstrated the transformation plasticity and the shape memory effects on cooling and heating under a stress. An increase in stress did not influence the shape memory effect value, which was equal to 1%. It was shown that the functional properties of the porous alloy were determined by the TiNi phase consisted of the two volumes Ti49.3Ni50.7 and Ti50Ni50 where the martensitic transformation occurred at different temperatures. The results of the study showed that the existence of the Ti49.3Ni50.7 volumes in the porous Ti-48.0 at.% Ni alloy improved the functional properties of the alloy.

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.

Influence of Hydrogen and Number of Particle Variants on Ordinary and Two-Way Shape Memory Effects in Ti-Ni Single Crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kireeva, I. V.; Platonova, Yu. N.; Chumlyakov, Yu. I.

2017-02-01

The ordinary and two-way shape memory effects (SMEs) are investigated for [ overline{1} 12] single crystals of Ti-51.3Ni (at.%) alloy aged at 823 K for 1.5 h in free state and under tensile stress of 150 MPa without hydrogen and after saturation by hydrogen. It is established that without hydrogen in [ overline{1} 12] single crystals with one and four variants of Ti3Ni4 particles the maximum magnitude of the ordinary SME is 1.9-2.6% under the external stress σext = 250 MPa. Under σext > 250 MPa, crystals are destroyed. The magnitude of the two-way SME caused by the B2- R- B19' MT equal to 1.1% at σext = 0 is observed in [ overline{1} 12] single crystals with one variant of Ti3Ni4 particles. The physical reason for the observed two-way SME is the internal compressive stresses oriented along the [ overline{1} 12] directions arising from one variant of Ti3Ni4 particles as a result of aging under tensile stress of 150 MPa. It is established that hydrogen does not influence the TR temperature, reduces the plasticity, and suppresses the two-way SME. The suppression of two-way SME in the [ overline{1} 12] single crystals of the Ti-51.3Ni (at.%) alloy with one variant of Ti3Ni4 particles is caused by shielding of stress fields from one variant of Ti3Ni4 particles and multiple nucleation of R- and B19' martensite variants under loading with saturation by hydrogen.

Smart vortex generator transformed by change in ambient temperature and aerodynamic force

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ikeda, Tadashige; Masuda, Shinya; Ueda, Tetsuhiko

2007-04-01

A Smart Vortex Generator (SVG) concept has been proposed, where the SVG is autonomously transformed between an upright vortex-generating position in take-off and landing and a flat drag-reducing position in a cruise. This SVG is made of a Shape Memory Alloy (SMA), which is in the austenite phase and memorizes the upright position at high temperatures of the take-off and landing. At low temperatures during ascent the SVG is transformed into a martensite phase, and it lies flat against a base structure due to external or/and internal forces. In this paper, we examine whether the SVG can be transformed into the drag-reducing position by an aerodynamic force. To this end, numerical simulations are carried out with a simple line element model. The aerodynamic force applied on the SVG is calculated by a commercial CFD program. Result reveals that this SVG can be transformed from the upright vortex-generating position into the drag-reducing position by just an airplane climbing, and vice versa, if the SMA applied to the SVG has the two-way shape memory effect. If the SMA has the one-way shape memory effect, it is necessary to reduce the stiffness of the SVG or/and use a counter spring.

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.

Mechanical and shape memory properties of ferromagnetic Ni2MnGa sputter-deposited films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohtsuka, M.; Matsumoto, M.; Itagaki, K.

2003-10-01

The ternary intermetallic compound Ni2MnGa is an intelligent material, which has a shape memory effect and a ferromagnetic property. Use of shape memory alloy films for an actuator of micro machines is very attractive because of its large recovery force. The data of mechanical and shape memory properties of the films are required to use for the actuator. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of fabrication conditions and to clarify the relationships between these properties and fabrication conditions of the Ni{2}MnGa films. The Ni{2}MnGa films were deposited with a radio-frequency magnetron sputtering apparatus using a Ni{50}Mn{25}Ga{25} or Ni{52}Mn{24}Ga{24} target. After deposition, the films were annealed at 873sim 1173 K. The asdeposited films were crystalline and had columnar grains. After the heat treatment, the grains widened and the grain boundary became indistinct with increasing heat treatment temperature. MnO and Ni{3} (Mn, Ga) precipitations were observed in the heat-treated films. The mechanical properties of the films were measured by the nanoindentation method. Hardness and elastic modulus of as-deposited films were larger than those of arcmelted bulk alloys. The hardness of the films was affected by the composition, crystal structure, microstructure and precipitation, etc. The elastic modulus of the films was also changed with the heat treatment conditions. The heat-treated films showed a thermal two-way shape memory effect.

Design of two-way reversible bending actuator based on a shape memory alloy/shape memory polymer composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taya, Minoru; Liang, Yuanchang; Namli, Onur C.; Tamagawa, Hirohisa; Howie, Tucker

2013-10-01

The design of a reversible bending actuator based on a SMA/SMP composite is presented. The SMA/SMP composite is made of SMA NiTi wires with a bent ‘U’-shape in the austenite phase embedded in an epoxy SMP matrix which has a memorized flat shape. The bending motion is caused by heating the composite above TAf to activate the NiTi recovery. Upon cooling, the softening from the austenite to R-phase transformation results in a relaxation of the composite towards its original flat shape. In the three-point bending measurement the composite was able to exhibit a reversible deflection of 1.3 mm on a support with a 10 mm span. In addition, a material model for predicting the composite’s deflection is presented and predicts the experimental results reasonably well. The model also estimates the in-plane internal force and the degree of the SMA phase transformation.

Assessing the morphology of selective laser melted NiTi-scaffolds for a three-dimensional quantification of the one-way shape memory effect

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bormann, Therese; de Wild, Michael; Beckmann, Felix; Müller, Bert

2013-04-01

NiTi is promising for the use as bone scaffold, because the pseudoelasticity or the one- and two-way shape memory effect in the physiological window can mechanically stimulate the adherent cells. Such stimuli can enhance osseointegration and might reduce stress shielding associated with load bearing implants. The present study is based on the additive manufacturing technique of selective laser melting (SLM) to fabricate three-dimensional NiTi scaffolds. We demonstrate that the morphology of the scaffolds can be quantified using synchrotron radiation-based micro computed tomography (SRμCT) and sophisticated registration software. Comparing the CAD file with the SLM scaffolds, quality factors are derived. With respect to the CAD file, the overlap corresponds to (92.5 +/- 0.6) %. (7.4 +/- 0.42) % of material was missing and (48.9 +/- 2.3) % of excess material found. This means that the actual scaffold is less porous than expected, a fact that has to be considered for the scaffold design. In order to quantify the shape memory effect during the shape recovery process, we acquired radiographs rotating an initially deformed scaffold in angular steps of 0.2 degree during controlled heating. The continuously acquired radiographs were combined to tomography data, showing that the quality factors evolved with temperature as the scaffold height, measured by conventional thermo-mechanical analysis. Furthermore, the data comprise the presence of compressive and tensile local strains in the three-dimensional scaffolds to be compared with the physiological situation.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Characterizing Effects of Nitric Oxide Sterilization on tert-Butyl Acrylate Shape Memory Polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Phillippi, Ben

As research into the potential uses of shape memory polymers (SMPs) as implantable medical devices continues to grow and expand, so does the need for an accurate and reliable sterilization mechanism. The ability of an SMP to precisely undergo a programmed shape change will define its ability to accomplish a therapeutic task. To ensure proper execution of the in vivo shape change, the sterilization process must not negatively affect the shape memory behavior of the material. To address this need, this thesis investigates the effectiveness of a benchtop nitric oxide (NOx) sterilization process and the extent to which the process affects the shape memory behavior of a well-studied tert-Butyl Acrylate (tBA) SMP. Quantifying the effects on shape memory behavior was performed using a two-tiered analysis. A two-tiered study design was used to determine if the sterilization process induced any premature shape recovery and to identify any effects that NOx has on the overall shape memory behavior of the foams. Determining the effectiveness of the NOx system--specially, whether the treated samples are more sterile/less contaminated than untreated--was also performed with a two-tiered analysis. In this case, the two-tiered analysis was employed to have a secondary check for contamination. To elaborate, all of the samples that were deemed not contaminated from the initial test were put through a second sterility test to check for contamination a second time. The results of these tests indicated the NOx system is an effective sterilization mechanism and the current protocol does not negatively impact the shape memory behavior of the tBA SMP. The samples held their compressed shape throughout the entirety of the sterilization process. Additionally, there were no observable impacts on the shape memory behavior induced by NOx. Lastly, the treated samples demonstrated lower contamination than the untreated. This thesis demonstrates the effectiveness of NOx as a laboratory scale sterilization mechanism for heat triggered shape memory polymers. The shape memory analysis indicated that the magnitude of the length changes induced by NOx is small enough that it does not make a statistically significant impact on the shape memory behavior of the foams. Additionally, there were no observable effects on the shape memory behavior induced by NOx. The results further indicated the NOx system is effective at sterilizing porous scaffolds, as none of the sterilized samples showed contamination. Testing methods proved to be effective because the initial sterility test was able to identify all of the contaminated samples and preliminary results indicated that NOx sterilization improves the sterility of the foams.

Adaptive tuned vibration absorber based on magnetorheological elastomer-shape memory alloy composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumbhar, Samir B.; Chavan, S. P.; Gawade, S. S.

2018-02-01

Shape memory alloy (SMA) is an attractive smart material which could be used as stiffness tuning element in adaptive tuned vibration absorber (ATVA). The sharp modulus change in SMA material during phase transformation creates difficulties for smooth tuning to track forcing frequency to minimize vibrations of primary system. However, high hysteresis damping at low temperature martensitic phase degrades performance of vibration absorber. This paper deals with the study of dynamic response of system in which SMA and magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) are combined together to act as a smart spring- mass-damper system in a tuned vibration absorber. This composite is used as two way stiffness tuning element in ATVA for smooth and continuous tuning and to minimize the adverse effect at low temperature by increasing equivalent stiffness. The stiffnesses of SMA element and MRE are varied respectively by changing temperature and strength of external magnetic field. The two way stiffness tuning ability and adaptivity have been demonstrated analytically and experimentally. The experimental results show good agreement with analytical results. The proposed composite is able to shift the stiffness consequently the natural frequency of primary system as well as reduce the vibration level of primary system by substantial mount.

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.

Fabrication and characterization of compositionally-graded shape memory alloy films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cole, Daniel Paul

2009-12-01

The miniaturization of engineering devices has created interest in new actuation methods capable of high power and high frequency responses. Shape memory alloy (SMA) thin films have exhibited one of the highest power densities of any material used in these actuation schemes. However, they currently require complex thermomechanical training in order to be actuated, which becomes more difficult as devices approach the microscale. Previous studies have indicated that SMA films with compositional gradients have the added feature of an intrinsic two-way shape memory effect (SME). In this work, a new method for processing and characterizing compositionally-graded transformable thin films is presented. Graded NiTi SMA films were processed using magnetron sputtering. Single and multilayer graded films were deposited onto bulk NiTi substrates and single crystal silicon substrates, respectively. Annealing the films naturally produced a compositional gradient across the film-substrate or film-film interface through diffusion modification. The films were directly characterized using a combination of atomic force microscopy (AFM), x-ray diffraction and Auger electron spectroscopy. The compositional gradient was indirectly characterized by measuring the variation in mechanical properties as a function of depth using nanoindentation. The similarity of the indentation response on graded films of varying thickness was used to estimate the width of the graded interface. The nanoindentation response was predicted using an analysis that accounted for the transformation effects occurring under the tip during loading and the variation of elastic modulus resulting from the compositional gradient. The recovery mechanisms of the graded films are compared with homogeneous films using a new nanoscale technique. An AFM integrated with a heating and cooling stage was used to observe the recovery of inelastic deformation caused through nanoindentation. The graded films exhibited a two-way SME with a reduced hysteresis, while the homogeneous films exhibited the classical one-way SME. The fabrication and characterization techniques developed in this work have the potential to be applied to general graded and multi-layer film systems.

Pre-Service Teachers' Juxtaposed Memories: Implications for Teacher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Balli, Sandra J.

2014-01-01

Teacher education research has long understood that pre-service teachers' beliefs about teaching are well established by the time they enroll in a teacher education program. Based on the understanding that teacher memories help shape pre-service teachers' beliefs, teacher educators have sought ways to both honor such memories and facilitate a…

Reconfigurable photonic crystals enabled by pressure-responsive shape-memory polymers

PubMed Central

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

2015-01-01

Smart shape-memory polymers can memorize and recover their permanent shape in response to an external stimulus (for example, heat). They have been extensively exploited for a wide spectrum of applications ranging from biomedical devices to aerospace morphing structures. However, most of the existing shape-memory polymers are thermoresponsive and their performance is hindered by heat-demanding programming and recovery steps. Although pressure is an easily adjustable process variable such as temperature, pressure-responsive shape-memory polymers are largely unexplored. Here we report a series of shape-memory polymers that enable unusual ‘cold' programming and instantaneous shape recovery triggered by applying a contact pressure at ambient conditions. Moreover, the interdisciplinary integration of scientific principles drawn from two disparate fields—the fast-growing photonic crystal and shape-memory polymer technologies—enables fabrication of reconfigurable photonic crystals and simultaneously provides a simple and sensitive optical technique for investigating the intriguing shape-memory effects at nanoscale. PMID:26074349

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.

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.

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

Constitutive Models for Shape Memory Alloy Polycrystals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Comstock, R. J., Jr.; Somerday, M.; Wert, J. A.

1996-01-01

Shape memory alloys (SMA) exhibiting the superelastic or one-way effects can produce large recoverable strains upon application of a stress. In single crystals this stress and resulting strain are very orientation dependent. We show experimental stress/strain curves for a Ni-Al single crystal for various loading orientations. Also shown are model predictions; the open and closed circles indicate recoverable strains obtained at various stages in the transformation process. Because of the strong orientation dependence of shape memory properties, crystallographic texture can be expected to play an important role in the mechanical behavior of polycrystalline SMA. It is desirable to formulate a constitutive model to better understand and exploit the unique properties of SMA.

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.

The impact of imprisonment on overgeneral autobiographical memory in former political prisoners.

PubMed

Kleim, Birgit; Griffith, James W; Gäbler, Ira; Schützwohl, Matthias; Maercker, Andreas

2013-10-01

Traumatic experiences may dramatically influence later behavior and cognitive processing. This study investigated how trauma shapes the way that we remember personal experiences. Specifically, we investigated overgeneral autobiographical memory, which is the tendency to remember autobiographical events in an overgeneral rather than specific way. We administered the Autobiographical Memory Test (Williams & Broadbent,) to 86 survivors of political imprisonment 37 years after they had been released from imprisonment. Depression and posttraumatic stress disorder were not significantly related to overgeneral autobiographical memory. Significant overgeneral autobiographical memory correlates included embitterment, r = -.28, and being released to former East Germany, d = 0.67. Survivors with social support, r = .30 were better able to recall specific memories. Certain trauma characteristics and the way the trauma is processed may thus influence how personal memories are later remembered. This study also furthers the understanding of memory processes in political prisoners, who are not commonly studied in psychological research. Copyright © 2013 International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies.

Cultural and communicative memories: contrasting Argentina's 1976 coup d'état and the 2001 economic-political-social crisis.

PubMed

Muller, Felipe; Bermejo, Federico; Hirst, William

2018-08-01

Studies on collective memory have recently addressed the distinction between cultural and communicative memory as a way to understand how the source of a memory affects its structure or form. When a groups' memory is mediated by memorials, documentaries or any other cultural artifacts, collective memory is shaped by cultural memory. When it is based mostly in communication with other people, its source is communicative memory. We address this distinction by studying two recent events in Argentinean history: the 2001 economic-political-social crisis (communicative memory) and the 1976 coup (cultural memory). We also examine the political ideology and the type of memory involved in collective memory. The memory of the studied events may occur during the lifetime of the rememberer (Lived Memory) or refer to distant events (Distant Memory). 100 participants responded to a Free Recall task about the events of 2001 in Argentina. Narrative analysis allowed comparing these recalls with our 1976 study. Results show: 1) Cultural memories are more contextualised, more impersonal and less affective. 2) Communicative memories are more personal and affective. Study shows how collective memory form changes when it has a different prevalent source.

Using the two-way shape memory effect of NiTi to control surface texture for cellular mechanotransduction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Yuan; Qin, Haifeng; Hou, Xiaoning; Doll, Gary L.; Ye, Chang; Dong, Yalin

2018-07-01

Mechanical force can crucially affect form and function of cells, and play critical roles in many diseases. While techniques to conveniently apply mechanical force to cells are limited, we fabricate a surface actuator prototype for cellular mechanotransduction by imparting severe plastic deformation into the surface of shape memory alloy (SMA). Using ultrasonic nanocrystal surface modification (UNSM), a deformation-based surface engineering technique with high controllability, micro surface patterns can be generated on the surface of SMA so that the micro-size cell can conform to the pattern; meanwhile, phase transformation can be induced in the subsurface by severe plastic deformation. By controlling plastic deformation and phase transformation, it is possible to establish a quantitative relation between deformation and temperature. When cells are cultured on the UNSM-treated surface, such surface can dynamically deform in response to external temperature change, and therefore apply controllable mechanical force to cells. Through this study, we demonstrate a novel way to fabricate a low-cost surface actuator that has the potential to be used for high-throughput cellular mechanotransduction.

Calibration and Finite Element Implementation of an Energy-Based Material Model for Shape Memory Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Junker, Philipp; Hackl, Klaus

2016-09-01

Numerical simulations are a powerful tool to analyze the complex thermo-mechanically coupled material behavior of shape memory alloys during product engineering. The benefit of the simulations strongly depends on the quality of the underlying material model. In this contribution, we discuss a variational approach which is based solely on energetic considerations and demonstrate that unique calibration of such a model is sufficient to predict the material behavior at varying ambient temperature. In the beginning, we recall the necessary equations of the material model and explain the fundamental idea. Afterwards, we focus on the numerical implementation and provide all information that is needed for programing. Then, we show two different ways to calibrate the model and discuss the results. Furthermore, we show how this model is used during real-life industrial product engineering.

Thermally driven microfluidic pumping via reversible shape memory polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Robertson, J. M.; Rodriguez, R. X.; Holmes, L. R., Jr.; Mather, P. T.; Wetzel, E. D.

2016-08-01

The need exists for autonomous microfluidic pumping systems that utilize environmental cues to transport fluid within a network of channels for such purposes as heat distribution, self-healing, or optical reconfiguration. Here, we report on reversible thermally driven microfluidic pumping enabled by two-way shape memory polymers. After developing a suitable shape memory polymer (SMP) through variation in the crosslink density, thin and flexible microfluidic devices were constructed by lamination of plastic films with channels defined by laser-cutting of double-sided adhesive film. SMP blisters integrated into the devices provide thermally driven pumping, while opposing elastic blisters are used to generate backpressure for reversible operation. Thermal cycling of the device was found to drive reversible fluid flow: upon heating to 60 °C, the SMP rapidly contracted to fill the surface channels with a transparent fluid, and upon cooling to 8 °C the flow reversed and the channel re-filled with black ink. Combined with a metallized backing layer, this device results in refection of incident light at high temperatures and absorption of light (at the portions covered with channels) at low temperatures. We discuss power-free, autonomous applications ranging from thermal regulation of structures to thermal indication via color change.

Applications of Shape Memory Alloys for Neurology and Neuromuscular Rehabilitation

PubMed Central

Pittaccio, Simone; Garavaglia, Lorenzo; Ceriotti, Carlo; Passaretti, Francesca

2015-01-01

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are a very promising class of metallic materials that display interesting nonlinear properties, such as pseudoelasticity (PE), shape memory effect (SME) and damping capacity, due to high mechanical hysteresis and internal friction. Our group has applied SMA in the field of neuromuscular rehabilitation, designing some new devices based on the mentioned SMA properties: in particular, a new type of orthosis for spastic limb repositioning, which allows residual voluntary movement of the impaired limb and has no predetermined final target position, but follows and supports muscular elongation in a dynamic and compliant way. Considering patients in the sub-acute phase after a neurological lesion, and possibly bedridden, the paper presents a mobiliser for the ankle joint, which is designed exploiting the SME to provide passive exercise to the paretic lower limb. Two different SMA-based applications in the field of neuroscience are then presented, a guide and a limb mobiliser specially designed to be compatible with diagnostic instrumentations that impose rigid constraints in terms of electromagnetic compatibility and noise distortion. Finally, the paper discusses possible uses of these materials in the treatment of movement disorders, such as dystonia or hyperkinesia, where their dynamic characteristics can be advantageous. PMID:26023790

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.

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.

New laser machining processes for shape memory alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haferkamp, Heinz; Paschko, Stefan; Goede, Martin

2001-04-01

Due to special material properties, shape memory alloys (SMA) are finding increasing attention in micro system technology. However, only a few processes are available for the machining of miniaturized SMA-components. In this connection, laser material processing offers completely new possibilities. This paper describes the actual status of two projects that are being carried out to qualify new methods to machine SMA components by means of laser radiation. Within one project, the laser material ablation process of miniaturized SMA- components using ultra-short laser pulses (pulse duration: approx. 200 fs) in comparison to conventional laser material ablation is being investigated. Especially for SMA micro- sensors and actuators, it is important to minimize the heat affected zone (HAZ) to maintain the special mechanical properties. Light-microscopic investigations of the grain texture of SMA devices processed with ultra-short laser pulses show that the HAZ can be neglected. Presently, the main goal of the project is to qualify this new processing technique for the micro-structuring of complex SMA micro devices with high precision. Within a second project, investigations are being carried out to realize the induction of the two-way memory effect (TWME) into SMA components using laser radiation. By precisely heating SMA components with laser radiation, local tensions remain near the component surface. In connection with the shape memory effect, these tensions can be used to make the components execute complicated movements. Compared to conventional training methods to induce the TWME, this procedure is faster and easier. Furthermore, higher numbers of thermal cycling are expected because of the low dislocation density in the main part of the component.

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

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.

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.

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.

Commentary: Should Gender Differences Be Included in the Evolutionary Upgrade to Cognitive Load Theory?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bevilacqua, Andy

2017-01-01

Recent upgrades to cognitive load theory suggest that evolutionary processes have shaped the way that working memory processes cultural and social information. According to evolutionarily educational psychologists, some forms of information are processed with lower working memory loads than other forms. The former are evolutionarily salient and…

Implicit Schemata and Categories in Memory-Based Language Processing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

van den Bosch, Antal; Daelemans, Walter

2013-01-01

Memory-based language processing (MBLP) is an approach to language processing based on exemplar storage during learning and analogical reasoning during processing. From a cognitive perspective, the approach is attractive as a model for human language processing because it does not make any assumptions about the way abstractions are shaped, nor any…

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.

Aeroelastic flutter enhancement by exploiting the combined use of shape memory alloys and nonlinear piezoelectric circuits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sousa, Vagner Candido de; Silva, Tarcísio Marinelli Pereira; De Marqui Junior, Carlos

2017-10-01

In this paper, the combined effects of semi-passive control using shunted piezoelectric material and passive pseudoelastic hysteresis of shape memory springs on the aerolastic behavior of a typical section is investigated. An aeroelastic model that accounts for the presence of both smart materials employed as mechanical energy dissipation devices is presented. The Brinson model is used to simulate the shape memory material. New expressions for the modeling of the synchronized switch damping on inductor technique (developed for enhanced piezoelectric damping) are presented, resulting in better agreement with experimental data. The individual effects of each nonlinear mechanism on the aeroelastic behavior of the typical section are first verified. Later, the combined effects of semi-passive piezoelectric control and passive shape memory alloy springs on the post-critical behavior of the system are discussed in details. The range of post-flutter airflow speeds with stable limit cycle oscillations is significantly increased due to the combined effects of both sources of energy dissipation, providing an effective and autonomous way to modify the behavior of aeroelastic systems using smart materials.

Fast and memory efficient text image compression with JBIG2.

PubMed

Ye, Yan; Cosman, Pamela

2003-01-01

In this paper, we investigate ways to reduce encoding time, memory consumption and substitution errors for text image compression with JBIG2. We first look at page striping where the encoder splits the input image into horizontal stripes and processes one stripe at a time. We propose dynamic dictionary updating procedures for page striping to reduce the bit rate penalty it incurs. Experiments show that splitting the image into two stripes can save 30% of encoding time and 40% of physical memory with a small coding loss of about 1.5%. Using more stripes brings further savings in time and memory but the return diminishes. We also propose an adaptive way to update the dictionary only when it has become out-of-date. The adaptive updating scheme can resolve the time versus bit rate tradeoff and the memory versus bit rate tradeoff well simultaneously. We then propose three speedup techniques for pattern matching, the most time-consuming encoding activity in JBIG2. When combined together, these speedup techniques can save up to 75% of the total encoding time with at most 1.7% of bit rate penalty. Finally, we look at improving reconstructed image quality for lossy compression. We propose enhanced prescreening and feature monitored shape unifying to significantly reduce substitution errors in the reconstructed images.

Synthesis and characterization of shape-memory poly carbonate urethane microspheres for future vascular embolization.

PubMed

Liu, Rongrong; Dai, Honglian; Zhou, Qian; Zhang, Qian; Zhang, Ping

2016-08-01

Two types of shape memory poly carbonate urethanes (PCUs) microspheres were synthesized by pre-polymerization and suspension polymerization, based on Polycarbonate diol (PCDL) as the soft segment, Isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) and 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) as the hard segments and 1,4-butanediol (BDO) as the chain expanding agent. The structure, crystallinity, and thermal property of the two synthesized PCUs were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Differential scanning calorimetery (DSC), respectively. The results showed that the two types of PCUs exhibited high thermal stability with phase separation and semi-crystallinity. Also, the results of the compression test displayed that the shape fixity and the shape recovery of two PCUs were more than 90% compared to the originals, indicating their similar bio-applicability and shape-memory properties. The tensile strength, elongation at break was enhanced by introducing and increasing content of HDI. The water contact angles of PCUs decreased and their surface tension increased by surface modified with Bovine serum albumin (BSA). Furthermore, the biological study results of two types of PCUs from the platelet adhesion test and the cell proliferation inhibition test indicated they had some biocompatibilites. Hence, the PCU microspheres might represent a smart and shape-memory embolic agent for vascular embolization.

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.

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.

Construction of RNA-Quantum Dot Chimera for Nanoscale Resistive Biomemory Application.

PubMed

Lee, Taek; Yagati, Ajay Kumar; Pi, Fengmei; Sharma, Ashwani; Choi, Jeong-Woo; Guo, Peixuan

2015-07-28

RNA nanotechnology offers advantages to construct thermally and chemically stable nanoparticles with well-defined shape and structure. Here we report the development of an RNA-QD (quantum dot) chimera for resistive biomolecular memory application. Each QD holds two copies of the pRNA three-way junction (pRNA-3WJ) of the bacteriophage phi29 DNA packaging motor. The fixed quantity of two RNAs per QD was achieved by immobilizing the pRNA-3WJ with a Sephadex aptamer for resin binding. Two thiolated pRNA-3WJ serve as two feet of the chimera that stand on the gold plate. The RNA nanostructure served as both an insulator and a mediator to provide defined distance between the QD and gold. Immobilization of the chimera nanoparticle was confirmed with scanning tunneling microscopy. As revealed by scanning tunneling spectroscopy, the conjugated pRNA-3WJ-QD chimera exhibited an excellent electrical bistability signal for biomolecular memory function, demonstrating great potential for the development of resistive biomolecular memory and a nano-bio-inspired electronic device for information processing and computing.

Construction of RNA-Quantum Dot Chimera for Nanoscale Resistive Biomemory Application

PubMed Central

Lee, Taek; Yagati, Ajay Kumar; Pi, Fengmei; Sharma, Ashwani; Choi, Jeong-Woo; Guo, Peixuan

2015-01-01

RNA nanotechnology offer advantages to construct thermally and chemically stable nanoparticles with well-defined shape and structure. Here we report the development of an RNA-Qd (quantum dot) chimera for resistive biomolecular memory application. Each Qd holds two copies of the pRNA three-way junction (pRNA-3WJ) of bacteriophage phi29 DNA-packaging motor. The fixed quantity of two RNA per Qd was achieved by immobilizing pRNA-3WJ harboring Sephadex aptamer for resin binding. Two thiolated pRNA-3WJ serves as two feet of the chimera to stand on the gold plate. The RNA nanostructure served as both an insulator and a mediator to provide defined distance between Qd and gold. Immobilization of chimera nanoparticle was confirmed through scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). As revealed by scanning tunneling spectroscopy (STS), the conjugated pRNA-3WJ-Qd chimera exhibited excellent electrical bi-stability signal for biomolecular memory function, demonstrating great potential for the development of resistive biomolecular memory and nanobio-inspired electronic device for information processing and computing. PMID:26135474

Schools as Artifacts: Critical Autoethnography and Teacher Renewal

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Benoit, Brian Andrew

2016-01-01

This article examines how past memories can shape how we see the present and future in the context of teacher education and professional development. Using qualitative inquiry, drawing in particular on self-study and memory-work, I explore the ways in which critical autoethnography can serve as a tool for personal and professional growth in the…

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.

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

A space release/deployment system actuated by shape memory wires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fragnito, Marino; Vetrella and, Sergio

2002-11-01

In this paper, the design of an innovative hold down/release and deployment device actuated by shape memory wires, to be used for the first time for the S MA RT microsatellite solar wings is shown. The release and deployment mechanisms are actuated by a Shape Memory wire (Nitinol), which allows a complete symmetrical and synchronous release, in a very short time, of the four wings in pairs. The hold down kinematic mechanism is preloaded to avoid vibration nonlinearities and unwanted deployment at launch. The deployment mechanism is a simple pulley system. The stiffness of the deployed panel-hinge system needs to be dimensioned in order to meet the on-orbit requirement for attitude control. One-way roller clutches are used to keep the panel at the desired angle during the mission. An ad hoc software has been developed to simulate both the release and deployment operations, coupling the SMA wire behavior with the system mechanics.

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

Avalanche correlations in the martensitic transition of a Cu-Zn-Al shape memory alloy: analysis of acoustic emission and calorimetry.

PubMed

Baró, Jordi; Martín-Olalla, José-María; Romero, Francisco Javier; Gallardo, María Carmen; Salje, Ekhard K H; Vives, Eduard; Planes, Antoni

2014-03-26

The existence of temporal correlations during the intermittent dynamics of a thermally driven structural phase transition is studied in a Cu-Zn-Al alloy. The sequence of avalanches is observed by means of two techniques: acoustic emission and high sensitivity calorimetry. Both methods reveal the existence of event clustering in a way that is equivalent to the Omori correlations between aftershocks in earthquakes as are commonly used in seismology.

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.

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.

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.

Working Memory Units are All in Your Head: Factors that Influence Whether Features or Objects Are the Favored Units

PubMed Central

Vergauwe, Evie; Cowan, Nelson

2015-01-01

We compared two contrasting hypotheses of how multi-featured objects are stored in visual working memory (vWM): as integrated objects or as independent features. A new procedure was devised to examine vWM representations of several concurrently-held objects and their features and our main measure was reaction time (RT), allowing an examination of the real-time search through features and/or objects in an array in vWM. Response speeds to probes with color, shape or both were studied as a function of the number of memorized colored shapes. Four testing groups were created by varying the instructions and the way in which probes with both color and shape were presented. The instructions explicitly either encouraged or discouraged the use of binding information and the task-relevance of binding information was further suggested by presenting probes with both color and shapes as either integrated objects or independent features. Our results show that the unit used for retrieval from vWM depends on the testing situation. Search was fully object-based only when all factors support that basis of search, in which case retrieving two features took no longer than retrieving a single feature. Otherwise, retrieving two features took longer than retrieving a single feature. Additional analyses of change detection latency suggested that, even though different testing situations can result in a stronger emphasis on either the feature dimension or the object dimension, neither one disappears from the representation and both concurrently affect change detection performance. PMID:25705873

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.

Behavior of the shape memory alloy NiTi during one-dimensional shock loading

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Millett, J. C. F.; Bourne, N. K.; Gray, G. T., III

2002-09-01

The response of alloys based on the intermetallic compound NiTi to high-strain-rate and shock loading conditions has recently attracted attention. In particular, similarities between it, and other shape memory materials such as the alloy U-6%Nb in the propagation of the plastic wave in Taylor cylinders are of significant interest. In this article, the Hugoniot is measured using multiple manganin stress gauges, either embedded between plates of the NiTi alloy, or supported with blocks of polymethylmethacrylate. In this way, the shock stress, shock velocity, and details of the shock wave profile have been gathered. An inflection at lower stresses has been found in the Hugoniot curve (stress-particle velocity), and has been ascribed to the martensitic phase transformation that is characteristic of the shape memory effect in this alloy. In a similar way, the variation of shock velocity with particle velocity has been found to be nonlinear, contrary to other pure metal and alloy systems. Finally, a break in slope in the rising part of the shock profile has been identified as the Hugoniot elastic limit in NiTi. Conversion to the one-dimensional stress equivalent, and comparison to quasistatic data indicates that NiTi exhibits significant strain-rate sensitivity.

Experimental Studies on Dynamic Vibration Absorber using Shape Memory Alloy (NiTi) Springs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, V. Raj; Kumar, M. B. Bharathi Raj; Kumar, M. Senthil

2011-10-01

Shape memory alloy (SMA) springs have been used as actuators in many applications although their use in the vibration control area is very recent. Since shape memory alloys differ from conventional alloy materials in many ways, the traditional design approach for springs is not completely suitable for designing SMA springs. Some vibration control concepts utilizing unique characteristics of SMA's will be presented in this paper. A dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) using shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator is developed for attenuation of vibration in a cantilever beam. The design procedure of the DVA is presented. The system consists of a cantilever beam which is considered to generate the real-time vibration using shaker. A SMA spring is used with a mass attached to its end. The stiffness of the SMA spring is dynamically varied in such a way to attenuate the vibration. Both simulation and experimentation are carried out using PID controller. The experiments were carried out by interfacing the experimental setup with a computer using LabVIEW software, Data acquisition and control are implemented using a PCI data acquisition card. Standard PID controllers have been used to control the vibration of the beam. Experimental results are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the controllers designed and the usefulness of the proposed test platform by exciting the structure at resonance. In experimental setup, an accelerometer is used to measure the vibration which is fed to computer and correspondingly the SMA spring is actuated to change its stiffness to control the vibration. The results obtained illustrate that the developed DVA using SMA actuator is very effective in reducing structural response and have great potential to be an active vibration control medium.

Experimental Studies on Dynamic Vibration Absorber using Shape Memory Alloy (NiTi) Springs

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

Kumar, V. Raj; Kumar, M. B. Bharathi Raj; Kumar, M. Senthil

2011-10-20

Shape memory alloy (SMA) springs have been used as actuators in many applications although their use in the vibration control area is very recent. Since shape memory alloys differ from conventional alloy materials in many ways, the traditional design approach for springs is not completely suitable for designing SMA springs. Some vibration control concepts utilizing unique characteristics of SMA's will be presented in this paper.A dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) using shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator is developed for attenuation of vibration in a cantilever beam. The design procedure of the DVA is presented. The system consists of a cantilever beammore » which is considered to generate the real-time vibration using shaker. A SMA spring is used with a mass attached to its end. The stiffness of the SMA spring is dynamically varied in such a way to attenuate the vibration. Both simulation and experimentation are carried out using PID controller. The experiments were carried out by interfacing the experimental setup with a computer using LabVIEW software, Data acquisition and control are implemented using a PCI data acquisition card. Standard PID controllers have been used to control the vibration of the beam. Experimental results are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the controllers designed and the usefulness of the proposed test platform by exciting the structure at resonance. In experimental setup, an accelerometer is used to measure the vibration which is fed to computer and correspondingly the SMA spring is actuated to change its stiffness to control the vibration. The results obtained illustrate that the developed DVA using SMA actuator is very effective in reducing structural response and have great potential to be an active vibration control medium.« less

A neuromorphic circuit mimicking biological short-term memory.

PubMed

Barzegarjalali, Saeid; Parker, Alice C

2016-08-01

Research shows that the way we remember things for a few seconds is a different mechanism from the way we remember things for a longer time. Short-term memory is based on persistently firing neurons, whereas storing information for a longer time is based on strengthening the synapses or even forming new neural connections. Information about location and appearance of an object is segregated and processed by separate neurons. Furthermore neurons can continue firing using different mechanisms. Here, we have designed a biomimetic neuromorphic circuit that mimics short-term memory by firing neurons, using biological mechanisms to remember location and shape of an object. Our neuromorphic circuit has a hybrid architecture. Neurons are designed with CMOS 45nm technology and synapses are designed with carbon nanotubes (CNT).

Fabrication of a Bioactive, PCL-based "Self-fitting" Shape Memory Polymer Scaffold.

PubMed

Nail, Lindsay N; Zhang, Dawei; Reinhard, Jessica L; Grunlan, Melissa A

2015-10-23

Tissue engineering has been explored as an alternative strategy for the treatment of critical-sized cranio-maxillofacial (CMF) bone defects. Essential to the success of this approach is a scaffold that is able to conformally fit within an irregular defect while also having the requisite biodegradability, pore interconnectivity and bioactivity. By nature of their shape recovery and fixity properties, shape memory polymer (SMP) scaffolds could achieve defect "self-fitting." In this way, following exposure to warm saline (~60 ºC), the SMP scaffold would become malleable, permitting it to be hand-pressed into an irregular defect. Subsequent cooling (~37 ºC) would return the scaffold to its relatively rigid state within the defect. To meet these requirements, this protocol describes the preparation of SMP scaffolds prepared via the photochemical cure of biodegradable polycaprolactone diacrylate (PCL-DA) using a solvent-casting particulate-leaching (SCPL) method. A fused salt template is utilized to achieve pore interconnectivity. To realize bioactivity, a polydopamine coating is applied to the surface of the scaffold pore walls. Characterization of self-fitting and shape memory behaviors, pore interconnectivity and in vitro bioactivity are also described.

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.

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

Two-dimensional shape recognition using sparse distributed memory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kanerva, Pentti; Olshausen, Bruno

1990-01-01

Researchers propose a method for recognizing two-dimensional shapes (hand-drawn characters, for example) with an associative memory. The method consists of two stages: first, the image is preprocessed to extract tangents to the contour of the shape; second, the set of tangents is converted to a long bit string for recognition with sparse distributed memory (SDM). SDM provides a simple, massively parallel architecture for an associative memory. Long bit vectors (256 to 1000 bits, for example) serve as both data and addresses to the memory, and patterns are grouped or classified according to similarity in Hamming distance. At the moment, tangents are extracted in a simple manner by progressively blurring the image and then using a Canny-type edge detector (Canny, 1986) to find edges at each stage of blurring. This results in a grid of tangents. While the technique used for obtaining the tangents is at present rather ad hoc, researchers plan to adopt an existing framework for extracting edge orientation information over a variety of resolutions, such as suggested by Watson (1987, 1983), Marr and Hildreth (1980), or Canny (1986).

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.

Shape memory system with integrated actuation using embedded particles

DOEpatents

Buckley, Patrick R [New York, NY; Maitland, Duncan J [Pleasant Hill, CA

2009-09-22

A shape memory material with integrated actuation using embedded particles. One embodiment provides a shape memory material apparatus comprising a shape memory material body and magnetic pieces in the shape memory material body. Another embodiment provides a method of actuating a device to perform an activity on a subject comprising the steps of positioning a shape memory material body in a desired position with regard to the subject, the shape memory material body capable of being formed in a specific primary shape, reformed into a secondary stable shape, and controllably actuated to recover the specific primary shape; including pieces in the shape memory material body; and actuating the shape memory material body using the pieces causing the shape memory material body to be controllably actuated to recover the specific primary shape and perform the activity on the subject.

Shape memory system with integrated actuation using embedded particles

DOEpatents

Buckley, Patrick R [New York, NY; Maitland, Duncan J [Pleasant Hill, CA

2012-05-29

A shape memory material with integrated actuation using embedded particles. One embodiment provides a shape memory material apparatus comprising a shape memory material body and magnetic pieces in the shape memory material body. Another embodiment provides a method of actuating a device to perform an activity on a subject comprising the steps of positioning a shape memory material body in a desired position with regard to the subject, the shape memory material body capable of being formed in a specific primary shape, reformed into a secondary stable shape, and controllably actuated to recover the specific primary shape; including pieces in the shape memory material body; and actuating the shape memory material body using the pieces causing the shape memory material body to be controllably actuated to recover the specific primary shape and perform the activity on the subject.

Shape memory system with integrated actuation using embedded particles

DOEpatents

Buckley, Patrick R.; Maitland, Duncan J.

2014-04-01

A shape memory material with integrated actuation using embedded particles. One embodiment provides a shape memory material apparatus comprising a shape memory material body and magnetic pieces in the shape memory material body. Another embodiment provides a method of actuating a device to perform an activity on a subject comprising the steps of positioning a shape memory material body in a desired position with regard to the subject, the shape memory material body capable of being formed in a specific primary shape, reformed into a secondary stable shape, and controllably actuated to recover the specific primary shape; including pieces in the shape memory material body; and actuating the shape memory material body using the pieces causing the shape memory material body to be controllably actuated to recover the specific primary shape and perform the activity on the subject.

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.

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.

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.

Flexible memory retrieval in bilingual 6-month-old infants.

PubMed

Brito, Natalie; Barr, Rachel

2014-07-01

Memory flexibility is a hallmark of the human memory system. As indexed by generalization between perceptually dissimilar objects, memory flexibility develops gradually during infancy. A recent study has found a bilingual advantage in memory generalization at 18 months of age [Brito and Barr [2012] Developmental Science, 15, 812-816], and the present study examines when this advantage may first emerge. In the current study, bilingual 6-month-olds were more likely than monolinguals to generalize to a puppet that differed in two features (shape and color) than monolingual 6-month-olds. When challenged with a less complex change, two puppets that differed only in one feature--color, monolingual 6-month-olds were also able to generalize. These findings demonstrate early emerging differences in memory generalization in bilingual infants, and have important implications for our understanding of how early environmental variations shape the trajectory of memory development. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

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.

Magnetic Torque in Single Crystal Ni-Mn-Ga

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hobza, Anthony; Müllner, Peter

2017-06-01

Magnetic shape memory alloys deform in an external magnetic field in two distinct ways: by axial straining—known as magnetic-field-induced strain—and by bending when exposed to torque. Here, we examine the magnetic torque that a magnetic field exerts on a long Ni-Mn-Ga rod. A single crystal specimen of Ni-Mn-Ga was constrained with respect to bending and subjected to an external magnetic field. The torque required to rotate the specimen in the field was measured as a function of the orientation of the sample with the external magnetic field, strain, and the magnitude of the external magnetic field. The torque was analyzed based on the changes in the free energy with the angle between the field and the sample. The contributions of magnetocrystalline anisotropy and shape anisotropy to the Zeeman energy determine the net torque. The torque is large when magneotcrystalline and shape anisotropies act synergistically and small when these anisotropies act antagonistically.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Smart guidewires for smooth navigation in neurovascular intervention

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yanfei; Barry, Matthew M.; Shayan, Mahdis; Jankowitz, Brian T.; Duan, Xinjie; Robertson, Anne M.; Chyu, Minking K.; Chun, Youngjae

2015-04-01

A smart guidewire using nitinol materials was designed, manufactured and evaluated the device functionality, such as bending performance, trackability, thermal effects, and thrombogenic response. Two types of nitinol material were partially used to enhance the guidewire trackability. A proposed smart guidewire system uses either one- or two-way shape-memory alloy nitinol (1W-SMA, 2W-SMA) wires (0.015, 381µm nitinol wire). Bending stiffness was measured using in vitro test system, which contains the NI USB-9162 data logger and LabView Signal Express 2010. Temperature distribution and displacement were evaluated via recording a 60Hz movie using a SC325 camera. Hemocompatibility was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy after one heating cycle of nitinol under the Na-citrate porcine whole blood circulation. A smart guidewire showed 30 degrees bending after applying or disconnecting electrical current. While the temperature of the nitinol wires increased more than 70 °C, the surrounding temperature with the commercially available catheter coverings showed below human body temperature showing 30 ̴ 33 °C. There was no significant platelet attachment or blood coagulation when the guidewire operates. Novel smart guidewires have been developed using shape memory alloy nitinol, which may represent a novel alternative to typical commercially available guidewires for interventional procedures.

Differential Roles of the Fan-Shaped Body and the Ellipsoid Body in "Drosophila" Visual Pattern Memory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pan, Yufeng; Zhou, Yanqiong; Guo, Chao; Gong, Haiyun; Gong, Zhefeng; Liu, Li

2009-01-01

The central complex is a prominent structure in the "Drosophila" brain. Visual learning experiments in the flight simulator, with flies with genetically altered brains, revealed that two groups of horizontal neurons in one of its substructures, the fan-shaped body, were required for "Drosophila" visual pattern memory. However,…

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.

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.

Adaptable liquid crystal elastomers with transesterification-based bond exchange reactions.

PubMed

Hanzon, Drew W; Traugutt, Nicholas A; McBride, Matthew K; Bowman, Christopher N; Yakacki, Christopher M; Yu, Kai

2018-02-14

Adaptable liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) have recently emerged to provide a new and robust method to program monodomain LCE samples. When a constant stress is applied with active bond exchange reactions (BERs), polymer chains and mesogens gradually align in the strain direction. Mesogen alignment is maintained after removing the BER stimulus (e.g. by lowering the temperature) and the programmed LCE samples exhibit free-standing two-way shape switching behavior. Here, a new adaptable main-chain LCE system was developed with thermally induced transesterification BERs. The network combines the conventional properties of LCEs, such as an isotropic phase transition and soft elasticity, with the dynamic features of adaptable network polymers, which are malleable to stress relaxation due to the BERs. Polarized Fourier transform infrared measurements confirmed the alignment of polymer chains and mesogens after strain-induced programming. The influence of the creep stress, temperature, and time on the strain amplitude of two-way shape switching was examined. The LCE network demonstrates an innovative feature of reprogrammability, where the reversible shape-switching memory of programmed LCEs is readily deleted by free-standing heating as random BERs disrupt the mesogen alignment, so LCEs are reprogrammed after returning to the polydomain state. Due to the dynamic nature of the LCE network, it also exhibits a surface welding effect and can be fully dissolved in the organic solvent, which might be utilized for green and sustainable recycling of LCEs.

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.

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.

Facile fabrication of uniaxial nanopatterns on shape memory polymer substrates using a complete bottom-up approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Zhongbi; Krishnaswamy, Sridhar

2014-03-01

In earlier work, we have demonstrated an assisted self-assembly fabrication method for unidirectional submicron patterns using pre-programmed shape memory polymers (SMP) as the substrate in an organic/inorganic bilayer structure. In this paper, we propose a complete bottom-up method for fabrication of uniaxial wrinkles whose wavelength is below 300 nm. The method starts with using the aforementioned self-assembled bi-layer wrinkled surface as the template to make a replica of surface wrinkles on a PDMS layer which is spin-coated on a pre-programmed SMP substrate. When the shape recovery of the substrate is triggered by heating it to its transition temperature, the substrate has been programmed in such a way that it shrinks uniaxially to return to its permanent shape. Consequently, the wrinkle wavelength on PDMS reduces accordingly. A subsequent contact molding process is carried out on the PDMS layer spin-coated on another pre-programmed SMP substrate, but using the wrinkled PDMS surface obtained in the previous step as the master. By activating the shape recovery of the substrate, the wrinkle wavelength is further reduced a second time in a similar fashion. Our experiments showed that the starting wavelength of 640 nm decreased to 290 nm after two cycles of recursive molding. We discuss the advantages and limitations of our recursive molding approach compared to the prevalent top-down fabrication methods represented by lithography. The present study is expected to o er a simple and cost-e ective fabrication method of nano-scale uniaxial wrinkle patterns with the potential for large-scale mass-production.

The impact of iterated games on traffic flow at noncontrolled intersections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Chao; Jia, Ning

2015-05-01

Intersections without signal control widely exist in urban road networks. This paper studied the traffic flow in a noncontrolled intersection within an iterated game framework. We assume drivers have learning ability and can repetitively adjust their strategies (to give way or to rush through) in the intersection according to memories. A cellular automata model is applied to investigate the characteristics of the traffic flow. Numerical experiments indicate two main findings. First, the traffic flow experiences a "volcano-shaped" fundamental diagram with three different phases. Second, most drivers choose to give way in the intersection, but the aggressive drivers cannot be completely eliminated, which is coincident with field observations. Analysis are also given out to explain the observed phenomena. These findings allow deeper insight of the real-world bottleneck traffic flow.

How retellings shape younger and older adults' memories.

PubMed

Barber, Sarah J; Mather, Mara

2014-04-01

The way a story is retold influences the way it is later remembered; after retelling an event in a biased manner people subsequently remember the event in line with their distorted retelling. This study tested the hypothesis that this should be especially true for older adults. To test this, older and younger adults retold a story to be entertaining, to be accurate, or did not complete an initial retelling. Later, all participants recalled the story as accurately as possible. On this final test younger adults were unaffected by how they had previously retold the story. In contrast, older adults had better memory for the story's content and structure if they had previously retold the story accurately. Furthermore, for older adults, greater usage of storytelling language during the retelling was associated with lower subsequent recall. In summary, retellings exerted a greater effect on memory in older, compared with younger, adults.

How retellings shape younger and older adults’ memories

PubMed Central

Mather, Mara

2014-01-01

The way a story is retold influences the way it is later remembered; after retelling an event in a biased manner people subsequently remember the event in line with their distorted retelling. This study tested the hypothesis that this should be especially true for older adults. To test this, older and younger adults retold a story to be entertaining, to be accurate, or did not complete an initial retelling. Later, all participants recalled the story as accurately as possible. On this final test younger adults were unaffected by how they had previously retold the story. In contrast, older adults had better memory for the story’s content and structure if they had previously retold the story accurately. Furthermore, for older adults, greater usage of storytelling language during the retelling was associated with lower subsequent recall. In summary, retellings exerted a greater effect on memory in older, compared with younger, adults. PMID:25436107

An electrical-heating and self-sensing shape memory polymer composite incorporated with carbon fiber felt

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

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

2016-03-01

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) have the ability to adjust their stiffness, lock a temporary shape, and recover the permanent shape upon imposing an appropriate stimulus. They have found their way into the field of morphing structures. The electrically Joule resistive heating of the conductive composite can be a desirable stimulus to activate the shape memory effect of SMPs without external heating equipment. Electro-induced SMP composites incorporated with carbon fiber felt (CFF) were explored in this work. The CFF is an excellent conductive filler which can easily spread throughout the composite. It has a huge advantage in terms of low cost, simple manufacturing process, and uniform and tunable temperature distribution while heating. A continuous and compact conductive network made of carbon fibers and the overlap joints among them was observed from the microscopy images, and this network contributes to the high conductive properties of the CFF/SMP composites. The CFF/SMP composites can be electrical-heated rapidly and uniformly, and its’ shape recovery effect can be actuated by the electrical resistance Joule heating of the CFF without an external heater. The CFF/SMP composite get higher modulus and higher strength than the pure SMP without losing any strain recovery property. The high dependence of temperature and strain on the electrical resistance also make the composite a good self-sensing material. In general, the CFF/SMP composite shows great prospects as a potential material for the future morphing structures.

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.

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.

Improving Unipolar Resistive Switching Uniformity with Cone-Shaped Conducting Filaments and Its Logic-In-Memory Application.

PubMed

Gao, Shuang; Liu, Gang; Chen, Qilai; Xue, Wuhong; Yang, Huali; Shang, Jie; Chen, Bin; Zeng, Fei; Song, Cheng; Pan, Feng; Li, Run-Wei

2018-02-21

Resistive random access memory (RRAM) with inherent logic-in-memory capability exhibits great potential to construct beyond von-Neumann computers. Particularly, unipolar RRAM is more promising because its single polarity operation enables large-scale crossbar logic-in-memory circuits with the highest integration density and simpler peripheral control circuits. However, unipolar RRAM usually exhibits poor switching uniformity because of random activation of conducting filaments and consequently cannot meet the strict uniformity requirement for logic-in-memory application. In this contribution, a new methodology that constructs cone-shaped conducting filaments by using chemically a active metal cathode is proposed to improve unipolar switching uniformity. Such a peculiar metal cathode will react spontaneously with the oxide switching layer to form an interfacial layer, which together with the metal cathode itself can act as a load resistor to prevent the overgrowth of conducting filaments and thus make them more cone-like. In this way, the rupture of conducting filaments can be strictly limited to the tip region, making their residual parts favorable locations for subsequent filament growth and thus suppressing their random regeneration. As such, a novel "one switch + one unipolar RRAM cell" hybrid structure is capable to realize all 16 Boolean logic functions for large-scale logic-in-memory circuits.

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.

Deformation rate-, hold time-, and cycle-dependent shape-memory performance of Veriflex-E resin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McClung, Amber J. W.; Tandon, Gyaneshwar P.; Baur, Jeffery W.

2013-02-01

Shape-memory polymers have attracted great interest in recent years for application in reconfigurable structures (for instance morphing aircraft, micro air vehicles, and deployable space structures). However, before such applications can be attempted, the mechanical behavior of the shape-memory polymers must be thoroughly understood. The present study represents an assessment of viscous effects during multiple shape-memory cycles of Veriflex-E, an epoxy-based, thermally triggered shape-memory polymer resin. The experimental program is designed to explore the influence of multiple thermomechanical cycles on the shape-memory performance of Veriflex-E. The effects of the deformation rate and hold times at elevated temperature on the shape-memory behavior are also investigated.

Copolymer Networks From Oligo(ε-caprolactone) and n-Butyl Acrylate Enable a Reversible Bidirectional Shape-Memory Effect at Human Body Temperature.

PubMed

Saatchi, Mersa; Behl, Marc; Nöchel, Ulrich; Lendlein, Andreas

2015-05-01

Exploiting the tremendous potential of the recently discovered reversible bidirectional shape-memory effect (rbSME) for biomedical applications requires switching temperatures in the physiological range. The recent strategy is based on the reduction of the melting temperature range (ΔT m ) of the actuating oligo(ε-caprolactone) (OCL) domains in copolymer networks from OCL and n-butyl acrylate (BA), where the reversible effect can be adjusted to the human body temperature. In addition, it is investigated whether an rbSME in the temperature range close or even above Tm,offset (end of the melting transition) can be obtained. Two series of networks having mixtures of OCLs reveal broad ΔTm s from 2 °C to 50 °C and from -10 °C to 37 °C, respectively. In cyclic, thermomechanical experiments the rbSME can be tailored to display pronounced actuation in a temperature interval between 20 °C and 37 °C. In this way, the application spectrum of the rbSME can be extended to biomedical applications. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

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.

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

High-strain slide-ring shape-memory polycaprolactone-based polyurethane.

PubMed

Wu, Ruiqing; Lai, Jingjuan; Pan, Yi; Zheng, Zhaohui; Ding, Xiaobin

2018-06-06

To enable shape-memory polymer networks to achieve recoverable high deformability with a simultaneous high shape-fixity ratio and shape-recovery ratio, novel semi-crystalline slide-ring shape-memory polycaprolactone-based polyurethane (SR-SMPCLU) with movable net-points constructed by a topologically interlocked slide-ring structure was designed and fabricated. The SR-SMPCLU not only exhibited good shape fixity, almost complete shape recovery, and a fast shape-recovery speed, it also showed an outstanding recoverable high-strain capacity with 95.83% Rr under a deformation strain of 1410% due to the pulley effect of the topological slide-ring structure. Furthermore, the SR-SMPCLU system maintained excellent shape-memory performance with increasing the training cycle numbers at 45% and even 280% deformation strain. The effects of the slide-ring cross-linker content, deformation strain, and successive shape-memory cycles on the shape-memory performance were investigated. A possible mechanism for the shape-memory effect of the SR-SMPCLU system is proposed.

Involuntary Memories and Dissociative Amnesia: Assessing Key Assumptions in PTSD Research.

PubMed

Berntsen, Dorthe; Rubin, David C

2014-03-01

Autobiographical memories of trauma victims are often described as disturbed in two ways. First, the trauma is frequently re-experienced in the form of involuntary, intrusive recollections. Second, the trauma is difficult to recall voluntarily (strategically); important parts may be totally or partially inaccessible-a feature known as dissociative amnesia. These characteristics are often mentioned by PTSD researchers and are included as PTSD symptoms in the DSM-IV-TR (American Psychiatric Association, 2000). In contrast, we show that both involuntary and voluntary recall are enhanced by emotional stress during encoding. We also show that the PTSD symptom in the diagnosis addressing dissociative amnesia, trouble remembering important aspects of the trauma is less well correlated with the remaining PTSD symptoms than the conceptual reversal of having trouble forgetting important aspects of the trauma. Our findings contradict key assumptions that have shaped PTSD research over the last 40 years.

Involuntary Memories and Dissociative Amnesia: Assessing Key Assumptions in PTSD Research

PubMed Central

Berntsen, Dorthe; Rubin, David C.

2014-01-01

Autobiographical memories of trauma victims are often described as disturbed in two ways. First, the trauma is frequently re-experienced in the form of involuntary, intrusive recollections. Second, the trauma is difficult to recall voluntarily (strategically); important parts may be totally or partially inaccessible—a feature known as dissociative amnesia. These characteristics are often mentioned by PTSD researchers and are included as PTSD symptoms in the DSM-IV-TR (American Psychiatric Association, 2000). In contrast, we show that both involuntary and voluntary recall are enhanced by emotional stress during encoding. We also show that the PTSD symptom in the diagnosis addressing dissociative amnesia, trouble remembering important aspects of the trauma is less well correlated with the remaining PTSD symptoms than the conceptual reversal of having trouble forgetting important aspects of the trauma. Our findings contradict key assumptions that have shaped PTSD research over the last 40 years. PMID:25309832

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

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.

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.

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.

Effect of Thermal Treatments on Ni-Mn-Ga and Ni-Rich Ni-Ti-Hf/Zr High-Temperature Shape Memory Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santamarta, Ruben; Evirgen, Alper; Perez-Sierra, Aquilina M.; Pons, Jaume; Cesari, Eduard; Karaman, Ibrahim; Noebe, Ron D.

2015-11-01

Among all the promising high-temperature shape memory alloys (HTSMAs), the Ni-Mn-Ga and the Ni-Ti-Hf/Zr systems exhibit interesting shape memory and superelastic properties that may place them in a good position for potential applications. The present work shows that thermal treatments play a crucial role in controlling the martensitic phase transformation characteristics of both systems, but in different ways. On one hand, the equilibrium phase diagram of the Ni-Mn-Ga family allows selecting compositions with high transformation temperatures and outstanding thermal stability at relatively high temperatures in air, showing no significant changes in the transformation behavior for continuous aging up to ˜5 years at 500 °C. Moreover, the excellent thermal stability correlates with a good thermal cyclic stability and an exceptional oxidation resistance of the parent phase. On the other hand, precipitation processes controlled by thermal treatments are needed to manipulate the transformation temperatures, mechanical properties, and thermal stability of Ni-rich Ni-Ti-Hf/Zr alloys to become HTSMAs. These changes in the functional properties are a consequence of the competition between the mechanical and compositional effects of the precipitates on the martensitic transformation.

Impaired capacity of cerebellar patients to perceive and learn two-dimensional shapes based on kinesthetic cues.

PubMed

Shimansky, Y; Saling, M; Wunderlich, D A; Bracha, V; Stelmach, G E; Bloedel, J R

1997-01-01

This study addresses the issue of the role of the cerebellum in the processing of sensory information by determining the capability of cerebellar patients to acquire and use kinesthetic cues received via the active or passive tracing of an irregular shape while blindfolded. Patients with cerebellar lesions and age-matched healthy controls were tested on four tasks: (1) learning to discriminate a reference shape from three others through the repeated tracing of the reference template; (2) reproducing the reference shape from memory by drawing blindfolded; (3) performing the same task with vision; and (4) visually recognizing the reference shape. The cues used to acquire and then to recognize the reference shape were generated under four conditions: (1) "active kinesthesia," in which cues were acquired by the blindfolded subject while actively tracing a reference template; (2) "passive kinesthesia," in which the tracing was performed while the hand was guided passively through the template; (3) "sequential vision," in which the shape was visualized by the serial exposure of small segments of its outline; and (4) "full vision," in which the entire shape was visualized. The sequential vision condition was employed to emulate the sequential way in which kinesthetic information is acquired while tracing the reference shape. The results demonstrate a substantial impairment of cerebellar patients in their capability to perceive two-dimensional irregular shapes based only on kinesthetic cues. There also is evidence that this deficit in part relates to a reduced capacity to integrate temporal sequences of sensory cues into a complete image useful for shape discrimination tasks or for reproducing the shape through drawing. Consequently, the cerebellum has an important role in this type of sensory information processing even when it is not directly associated with the execution of movements.

Self-shaping of bioinspired chiral composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rong, Qing-Qing; Cui, Yu-Hong; Shimada, Takahiro; Wang, Jian-Shan; Kitamura, Takayuki

2014-08-01

Self-shaping materials such as shape memory polymers have recently drawn considerable attention owing to their high shape-changing ability in response to changes in ambient conditions, and thereby have promising applications in the biomedical, biosensing, soft robotics and aerospace fields. Their design is a crucial issue of both theoretical and technological interest. Motivated by the shape-changing ability of Towel Gourd tendril helices during swelling/deswelling, we present a strategy for realizing self-shaping function through the deformation of micro/nanohelices. To guide the design and fabrication of self-shaping materials, the shape equations of bent configurations, twisted belts, and helices of slender chiral composite are developed using the variation method. Furthermore, it is numerically shown that the shape changes of a chiral composite can be tuned by the deformation of micro/nanohelices and the fabricated fiber directions. This work paves a new way to create self-shaping composites.

Evidence for two attentional components in visual working memory.

PubMed

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

2014-11-01

How does executive attentional control contribute to memory for sequences of visual objects, and what does this reveal about storage and processing in working memory? Three experiments examined the impact of a concurrent executive load (backward counting) on memory for sequences of individually presented visual objects. Experiments 1 and 2 found disruptive concurrent load effects of equivalent magnitude on memory for shapes, colors, and colored shape conjunctions (as measured by single-probe recognition). These effects were present only for Items 1 and 2 in a 3-item sequence; the final item was always impervious to this disruption. This pattern of findings was precisely replicated in Experiment 3 when using a cued verbal recall measure of shape-color binding, with error analysis providing additional insights concerning attention-related loss of early-sequence items. These findings indicate an important role for executive processes in maintaining representations of earlier encountered stimuli in an active form alongside privileged storage of the most recent stimulus. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2014 APA, all rights reserved.

Memories of past episodes shape current intentions and decisions.

PubMed

Kuwabara, Kie J; Pillemer, David B

2010-05-01

This research tested the hypothesis that people's decisions and future plans are influenced by recently activated autobiographical memories. University students rated the overall quality of their college experiences. They were also asked to describe a specific memory of being either satisfied or dissatisfied with the university. Control participants did not describe a memory. After statistically controlling for pre-existing attitudes towards the university, students who recounted a positive memory expressed the strongest intentions to donate money to the university, attend a class reunion, and recommend the university to others, and they were more likely than controls to specify that an actual donation be made to the university rather than to another charity. Emotional intensity of positive memories predicted future plans and donation decisions. Students who recounted a negative memory also tended to favour the university in their actual donation decisions compared to controls. Prompting the recall of emotional memories may be an effective way to influence intentions and decisions.

Acoustic transmission and radiation analysis of adaptive shape-memory alloy reinforced laminated plates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, C.; Rogers, C. A.; Fuller, C. R.

1991-02-01

A theoretical analysis of sound transmission/radiation of shape-memory alloy (SMA) hybrid composite panels is presented. Unlike other composite materials, SMA hybrid composite is dynamically tunable by electrical activation of the SMA fibers and has numerous active control capabilities. Two of the concepts that will be briefly described and utilized in this paper are referred to as active property tuning (APT) and active strain energy tuning (ASET). Tuning or activating the embedded shape-memory alloy fibers in conventional composite materials changes the overall stiffness of the SMA hybrid composite structure and consequently changes natural frequency and mode shapes. The sound transmission and radiation from a composite panel is related to its frequency and mode shapes. Because of the capability to change both the natural frequency and mode shapes, the acoustic characteristics of SMA hybrid composite plates can be changed as well. The directivity pattern, radiation efficiency, and transmission loss of laminated composite materials are investigated based on 'composite' mode shapes in order to derive a basic understanding of the nature and authority of acoustic control by use of SMA hybrid composites.

Location-Unbound Color-Shape Binding Representations in Visual Working Memory.

PubMed

Saiki, Jun

2016-02-01

The mechanism by which nonspatial features, such as color and shape, are bound in visual working memory, and the role of those features' location in their binding, remains unknown. In the current study, I modified a redundancy-gain paradigm to investigate these issues. A set of features was presented in a two-object memory display, followed by a single object probe. Participants judged whether the probe contained any features of the memory display, regardless of its location. Response time distributions revealed feature coactivation only when both features of a single object in the memory display appeared together in the probe, regardless of the response time benefit from the probe and memory objects sharing the same location. This finding suggests that a shared location is necessary in the formation of bound representations but unnecessary in their maintenance. Electroencephalography data showed that amplitude modulations reflecting location-unbound feature coactivation were different from those reflecting the location-sharing benefit, consistent with the behavioral finding that feature-location binding is unnecessary in the maintenance of color-shape binding. © The Author(s) 2015.

The power of competition: Effects of social motivation on attention, sustained physical effort, and learning.

PubMed

DiMenichi, Brynne C; Tricomi, Elizabeth

2015-01-01

Competition has often been implicated as a means to improve effort-based learning and attention. Two experiments examined the effects of competition on effort and memory. In Experiment 1, participants completed a physical effort task in which they were rewarded for winning an overall percentage, or for winning a competition they believed was against another player. In Experiment 2, participants completed a memory task in which they were rewarded for remembering an overall percentage of shapes, or more shapes than a "competitor." We found that, in the physical effort task, participants demonstrated faster reaction times (RTs)-a previous indicator of increased attention-in the competitive environment. Moreover, individual differences predicted the salience of competition's effect. Furthermore, male participants showed faster RTs and greater sustained effort as a result of a competitive environment, suggesting that males may be more affected by competition in physical effort tasks. However, in Experiment 2, participants remembered fewer shapes when competing, and later recalled less of these shapes during a post-test, suggesting that competition was harmful in our memory task. The different results from these two experiments suggest that competition can improve attention in a physical effort task, yet caution the use of competition in memory tasks.

The power of competition: Effects of social motivation on attention, sustained physical effort, and learning

PubMed Central

DiMenichi, Brynne C.; Tricomi, Elizabeth

2015-01-01

Competition has often been implicated as a means to improve effort-based learning and attention. Two experiments examined the effects of competition on effort and memory. In Experiment 1, participants completed a physical effort task in which they were rewarded for winning an overall percentage, or for winning a competition they believed was against another player. In Experiment 2, participants completed a memory task in which they were rewarded for remembering an overall percentage of shapes, or more shapes than a “competitor.” We found that, in the physical effort task, participants demonstrated faster reaction times (RTs)—a previous indicator of increased attention—in the competitive environment. Moreover, individual differences predicted the salience of competition’s effect. Furthermore, male participants showed faster RTs and greater sustained effort as a result of a competitive environment, suggesting that males may be more affected by competition in physical effort tasks. However, in Experiment 2, participants remembered fewer shapes when competing, and later recalled less of these shapes during a post-test, suggesting that competition was harmful in our memory task. The different results from these two experiments suggest that competition can improve attention in a physical effort task, yet caution the use of competition in memory tasks. PMID:26388801

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.

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.

Development of an artificial urethral valve using SMA actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chonan, S.; Jiang, Z. W.; Tani, J.; Orikasa, S.; Tanahashi, Y.; Takagi, T.; Tanaka, M.; Tanikawa, J.

1997-08-01

The development of an artificial urethral valve for the treatment of urinary incontinence which occurs frequently in the aged is described. The prototype urethral valve is assembled in hand-drum form with four thin shape memory alloy (SMA) (nickel - titanium alloy) plates of 0.3 mm thickness. The shape memory effect in two directions is used to replace the urinary canal sphincter muscles and to control the canal opening and closing functions. The characteristic of the SMA is to assume the shape of a circular arc at normal temperatures and a flat shape at higher temperatures. Experiments have been conducted using a canine bladder and urinary canal.

Super strong dopamine hydrogels with shape memory and bioinspired actuating behaviours modulated by solvent exchange.

PubMed

Huang, Jiahe; Liao, Jiexin; Wang, Tao; Sun, Weixiang; Tong, Zhen

2018-03-28

Dopamine-containing hydrogels were synthesized by copolymerization of dopamine methacrylamide (DMA), N,N-dimethylacrylamide (DMAA), and an N,N'-methylenebisacrylamide (BIS) crosslinker in a mixed solvent of water and DMSO. The association of DMA was formed by simply immersing in water to facilely reinforce the hydrogel due to the introduction of the second physical crosslinking. The tensile strength of the hydrogels was increased greatly and regulated in a wide range from 200 kPa to over 2 MPa. The association of DMA was destroyed upon immersing in DMSO. This reversible formation and dissociation of the association structure endowed the hydrogel with shape memory and actuating capabilities. Rapid shape fixing in water and complete shape recovery in DMSO was realized within several minutes. Bioinspired functional soft actuators were designed based on the reversible association and metal ion coordination of DMA, including fast responsive hydrogel tentacles, programable multiple shape change, reversible and versatile painting and writing "hydrogel paper". The facile preparation and strength regulation provide a new way to design novel soft actuators through solvent exchange, and will inspire more complex applications upon combining the association with other properties of mussel inspired dopamine derivatives.

Experimental characterization and computational modeling of unimorph shape memory polymer actuators incorporating transverse curvature in the substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cantrell, Jason T.

This document outlines in detail the research performed by applying shape memory polymers in a generic unimorph actuator configuration. A set of experiments designed to investigate the influence of transverse curvature, the relative widths of shape memory polymer and composite substrates, and shape memory polymer thickness on actuator recoverability after multiple thermo-mechanical cycles is presented in detail. A theoretical model of the moment required to maintain shape fixity with minimal shape retention loss was developed and experimentally validated for unimorph composite actuators of varying cross-sectional areas. Theoretical models were also developed and evaluated to determine the relationship between the materials neutral axes and thermal stability during a thermo-mechanical cycle. Research was conducted on the incorporation of shape memory polymers on micro air vehicle wings to maximize shape fixity and shape recoverability while minimizing the volume of shape memory polymer on the wing surface. Applications based research also included experimentally evaluating the feasibility of shape memory polymers on deployable satellite antenna ribs both with and without resistance heaters which could be utilized to assist in antenna deployment.

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.

Working memory units are all in your head: Factors that influence whether features or objects are the favored units.

PubMed

Vergauwe, Evie; Cowan, Nelson

2015-09-01

We compared two contrasting hypotheses of how multifeatured objects are stored in visual working memory (vWM); as integrated objects or as independent features. A new procedure was devised to examine vWM representations of several concurrently held objects and their features and our main measure was reaction time (RT), allowing an examination of the real-time search through features and/or objects in an array in vWM. Response speeds to probes with color, shape, or both were studied as a function of the number of memorized colored shapes. Four testing groups were created by varying the instructions and the way in which probes with both color and shape were presented. The instructions explicitly either encouraged or discouraged the use of binding information and the task-relevance of binding information was further suggested by presenting probes with both color and shapes as either integrated objects or independent features. Our results show that the unit used for retrieval from vWM depends on the testing situation. Search was fully object-based only when all factors support that basis of search, in which case retrieving 2 features took no longer than retrieving a single feature. Otherwise, retrieving 2 features took longer than retrieving a single feature. Additional analyses of change detection latency suggested that, even though different testing situations can result in a stronger emphasis on either the feature dimension or the object dimension, neither one disappears from the representation and both concurrently affect change detection performance. (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved).

Smart material joint band

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tucchio, Michael A.; Stoodt, Robert A.; Livsey, Robert A.

1994-11-01

The present invention relates to an improved connector for joining two tubular members together. The connector is formed by a plurality of longitudinally extending fingers extending from an end of one of tubular members and at least one locking groove in the other of the tubular members for receiving the fingers. The connector further includes a circumferentially extending wire member which is received in a notch in a head portion of each of the plurality of fingers. The wire member is preferably formed from a shape memory alloy and has an original circumference less than the circumference of a circle formed by the notches in a head portions of the fingers. The connector includes apertures through which electric wires may be connected to the shape memory alloy ring member so as to cause the shape memory alloy ring member to return to its original shape and allow release of the joint connection.

Smart material joint band

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tucchio, Michael A.; Stoodt, Robert A.; Livsey, Robert A.

1993-12-01

The present invention relates to an improved connector for joining two tubular members together. The connector is formed by a plurality of longitudinally extending fingers extending from an end of one of the tubular members and at least one locking groove in the other of the tubular members for receiving the fingers. The connector further includes a circumferentially extending wire member which is received in a notch in a head portion of each of the plurality of fingers. The wire member is preferably formed from a shape memory alloy and has an original circumference less than the circumference of a circle formed by the notches in the head portions of the fingers. The connector includes apertures through which electric wires may be connected to the shape memory alloy ring member so as to cause the shape memory alloy ring member to return to its original shape and allow release of the joint connection.

Thermorheological characteristics and comparison of shape memory polymers fabricated by novel 3D printing technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hassan, Rizwan Ul; Jo, Soohwan; Seok, Jongwon

The feasibility of fabrication of shape memory polymers (SMPs) was investigated using a customized 3-dimensional (3D) printing technique with an excellent resolution that could be less than 100 microns. The thermorheological effects of SMPs were adjusted by contact and non-contact triggering, which led to the respective excellent shape recoveries of 100% and 99.89%. Thermogravimetric analyses of SMPs resulted in a minor weight loss, thereby revealing good thermal stability at higher temperatures. The viscoelastic properties of SMPs were measured using dynamic mechanical analyses, exhibiting increased viscous and elastic characteristics. Mechanical strength, thermal stability and viscoelastic properties, of the two SMPs were compared [di(ethylene) glycol dimethacrylate (DEGDMA) and poly (ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate (PEGDMA)] to investigate the shape memory behavior. This novel 3D printing technique can be used as a promising method for fabricating smart materials with increased accuracy in a cost-effective manner.

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.

Therapeutic-Ultrasound-Triggered Shape Memory of a Melamine-Enhanced Poly(vinyl alcohol) Physical Hydrogel.

PubMed

Li, Guo; Yan, Qiang; Xia, Hesheng; Zhao, Yue

2015-06-10

Therapeutic-ultrasound-triggered shape memory was demonstrated for the first time with a melamine-enhanced poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) physical hydrogel. The addition of a small amount of melamine (up to 1.5 wt %) in PVA results in a strong hydrogel due to the multiple H-bonding between the two constituents. A temporary shape of the hydrogel can be obtained by deformation of the hydrogel (∼65 wt % water) at room temperature, followed by fixation of the deformation by freezing/thawing the hydrogel under strain, which induces crystallization of PVA. We show that the ultrasound delivered by a commercially available device designed for the patient's pain relief could trigger the shape recovery process as a result of ultrasound-induced local heating in the hydrogel that melts the crystallized PVA cross-linking. This hydrogel is thus interesting for potential applications because it combines many desirable properties, being mechanically strong, biocompatible, and self-healable and displaying the shape memory capability triggered by a physiological stimulus.

Implicit associative learning in synesthetes and nonsynesthetes

PubMed Central

Bankieris, Kaitlyn R.; Aslin, Richard N.

2016-01-01

Although cross-modal neural connections and genetic underpinnings are prominent in most current theories regarding the development of synesthesia, the potential role of associative learning in the formation of synesthetic associations has recently been revitalized. In this study, we investigated implicit associative learning in synesthetes and nonsynesthetes by recording reaction times to a target whose color was probabilistically correlated with its shape. A continuous measure of target detection at multiple time points during learning revealed that synesthetes and nonsynesthetes learn associations differently. Specifically, our results demonstrate a ‘fast facilitation’ learning effect for nonsynesthetes and ‘fast interference, slow facilitation’ learning effect for synesthetes. Additionally, synesthetes exhibited superior long-term memory for learned associations in a surprise-delayed retest. After this retest, participants implicitly learned new (shuffled) shape-color associations. We found that synesthetes experienced greater interference while learning these new shape-color associations. These results detail ways in which implicit associative learning and memory differ between synesthetes and nonsynesthetes. PMID:27612860

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.

The Benefit of Surface Uniformity for Encoding Boundary Features in Visual Working Memory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Sung-Ho; Kim, Jung-Oh

2011-01-01

Using a change detection paradigm, the present study examined an object-based encoding benefit in visual working memory (VWM) for two boundary features (two orientations in Experiments 1-2 and two shapes in Experiments 3-4) assigned to a single object. Participants remembered more boundary features when they were conjoined into a single object of…

Model and Simulation of an SMA Enhanced Lip Seal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiao, Rui; Gao, Xiujie; Brinson, L. Catherine

2011-07-01

The feasibility of using SMA wires to improve the seal effectiveness has been studied experimentally and numerically. In this article, we present only the numerical study of simulating the thermo-mechanical behavior for an SMA enhanced lip seal, leaving the test setup and results in the experimental counterpart. A pseudo 3D SMA model, considering 1D SMA behavior in the major loading direction and elastic response in other directions, was used to capture the thermo-mechanical behavior of SMA wires. The model was then implemented into ABAQUS using the user-defined material subroutine to inherit most features of the commercial finite element package. Two-way shape memory effect was also considered since the SMA material exhibits strong two-way effects. An axisymmetric finite element model was constructed to simulate a seal mounting on a shaft and the sealing pressure was calculated for both the regular seal and the SMA enhanced seal. Finally, the result was qualitatively compared with the experimental observation.

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.

Exploratory study of the relations between spatial ability and drawing from memory.

PubMed

Czarnolewski, Mark Y; Eliot, John

2012-04-01

Test scores of 119 students, attending either a public four-year college or a technical school, were related to their proportionality and detail drawing scores on the Memory for Designs Test. In regression models, the ETS Maze Tracing, Eliot-Price Mental Rotations, and Bender-Gestalt tests were consistent predictors of proportionality scores, with the latter two tests uniquely related to these. The ETS Shapes Memory Test and the Form Board Test were the strongest predictors for detail accuracy scores. The Shapes test predicted proportionality when the CTY Visual Memory Test BB was excluded. The models then provided support for the hypothesis that drawing designs from memory, a critical skill in drawing, regardless of whether one focuses on accuracy for proportionality scores or for detail scores, is jointly related to the measures of recognition, production, and traditional spatial ability measures. This study identified multifaceted skills in drawing from memory.

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.

3D Printed Silicones with Shape Memory

DOE PAGES

Wu, Amanda S.; Small IV, Ward; Bryson, Taylor M.; ...

2017-07-05

Direct ink writing enables the layer-by-layer manufacture of ordered, porous structures whose mechanical behavior is driven by architecture and material properties. Here, we incorporate two different gas filled microsphere pore formers to evaluate the effect of shell stiffness and T g on compressive behavior and compression set in siloxane matrix printed structures. The lower T g microsphere structures exhibit substantial compression set when heated near and above T g, with full structural recovery upon reheating without constraint. By contrast, the higher T g microsphere structures exhibit reduced compression set with no recovery upon reheating. Aside from their role in tuningmore » the mechanical behavior of direct ink write structures, polymer microspheres are good candidates for shape memory elastomers requiring structural complexity, with potential applications toward tandem shape memory polymers.« less

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.

3D Printed Silicones with Shape Memory

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

Wu, Amanda S.; Small IV, Ward; Bryson, Taylor M.

Direct ink writing enables the layer-by-layer manufacture of ordered, porous structures whose mechanical behavior is driven by architecture and material properties. Here, we incorporate two different gas filled microsphere pore formers to evaluate the effect of shell stiffness and T g on compressive behavior and compression set in siloxane matrix printed structures. The lower T g microsphere structures exhibit substantial compression set when heated near and above T g, with full structural recovery upon reheating without constraint. By contrast, the higher T g microsphere structures exhibit reduced compression set with no recovery upon reheating. Aside from their role in tuningmore » the mechanical behavior of direct ink write structures, polymer microspheres are good candidates for shape memory elastomers requiring structural complexity, with potential applications toward tandem shape memory polymers.« less

Biodegradable Shape Memory Polymers in Medicine.

PubMed

Peterson, Gregory I; Dobrynin, Andrey V; Becker, Matthew L

2017-11-01

Shape memory materials have emerged as an important class of materials in medicine due to their ability to change shape in response to a specific stimulus, enabling the simplification of medical procedures, use of minimally invasive techniques, and access to new treatment modalities. Shape memory polymers, in particular, are well suited for such applications given their excellent shape memory performance, tunable materials properties, minimal toxicity, and potential for biodegradation and resorption. This review provides an overview of biodegradable shape memory polymers that have been used in medical applications. The majority of biodegradable shape memory polymers are based on thermally responsive polyesters or polymers that contain hydrolyzable ester linkages. These materials have been targeted for use in applications pertaining to embolization, drug delivery, stents, tissue engineering, and wound closure. The development of biodegradable shape memory polymers with unique properties or responsiveness to novel stimuli has the potential to facilitate the optimization and development of new medical applications. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

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.

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

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.

Short-Term Memory Retrievals and Expectation in On-Line Sentence Comprehension: The Effects of Recent Linguistic Context

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bartek, Brian D.

2011-01-01

Understanding how short-term memory shapes sentence comprehension processes is a long-standing topic in psycholinguistics. This thesis pursues new insights on two facets of short-term memory's role in sentence comprehension: (a) The first four experiments search for, and obtain, concrete evidence that locality effects, or increased integration…

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.

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.

Influence of volume magnetostriction on the thermodynamic properties of Ni-Mn-Ga shape memory alloys

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

Kosogor, Anna; Institute of Magnetism, 36-b, Vernadsky Str., Kyiv 03142; Donetsk Institute for Physics and Engineering, Kyiv 03028

2015-10-07

In the present article, the thermodynamic properties of Ni-Mn-Ga ferromagnetic shape memory alloys exhibiting the martensitic transformations (MTs) above and below Curie temperature are compared. It is shown that when MT goes below Curie temperature, the elastic and thermal properties of alloy noticeably depend on magnetization value due to spontaneous volume magnetostriction. However, the separation of magnetic parts from the basic characteristics of MT is a difficult task, because the volume magnetostriction does not qualitatively change the transformational behaviour of alloy. This problem is solved for several Ni-Mn-Ga alloys by means of the quantitative theoretical analysis of experimental data obtainedmore » in the course of stress-strain tests. For each alloy, the entropy change and the transformation heat evolved in the course of MT are evaluated, first, from the results of stress-strain tests and, second, from differential scanning calorimetry data. For all alloys, a quantitative agreement between the values obtained in two different ways is observed. It is shown that the magnetic part of transformation heat exceeds the non-magnetic one for the Ni-Mn-Ga alloys undergoing MTs in ferromagnetic state, while the elevated values of transformation heat measured for the alloys undergoing MTs in paramagnetic state are caused by large MT strains.« less

Influence of volume magnetostriction on the thermodynamic properties of Ni-Mn-Ga shape memory alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kosogor, Anna; L'vov, Victor A.; Cesari, Eduard

2015-10-01

In the present article, the thermodynamic properties of Ni-Mn-Ga ferromagnetic shape memory alloys exhibiting the martensitic transformations (MTs) above and below Curie temperature are compared. It is shown that when MT goes below Curie temperature, the elastic and thermal properties of alloy noticeably depend on magnetization value due to spontaneous volume magnetostriction. However, the separation of magnetic parts from the basic characteristics of MT is a difficult task, because the volume magnetostriction does not qualitatively change the transformational behaviour of alloy. This problem is solved for several Ni-Mn-Ga alloys by means of the quantitative theoretical analysis of experimental data obtained in the course of stress-strain tests. For each alloy, the entropy change and the transformation heat evolved in the course of MT are evaluated, first, from the results of stress-strain tests and, second, from differential scanning calorimetry data. For all alloys, a quantitative agreement between the values obtained in two different ways is observed. It is shown that the magnetic part of transformation heat exceeds the non-magnetic one for the Ni-Mn-Ga alloys undergoing MTs in ferromagnetic state, while the elevated values of transformation heat measured for the alloys undergoing MTs in paramagnetic state are caused by large MT strains.

Does developmental timing of exposure to child maltreatment predict memory performance in adulthood? Results from a large, population-based sample.

PubMed

Dunn, Erin C; Busso, Daniel S; Raffeld, Miriam R; Smoller, Jordan W; Nelson, Charles A; Doyle, Alysa E; Luk, Gigi

2016-01-01

Although maltreatment is a known risk factor for multiple adverse outcomes across the lifespan, its effects on cognitive development, especially memory, are poorly understood. Using data from a large, nationally representative sample of young adults (Add Health), we examined the effects of physical and sexual abuse on working and short-term memory in adulthood. We examined the association between exposure to maltreatment as well as its timing of first onset after adjusting for covariates. Of our sample, 16.50% of respondents were exposed to physical abuse and 4.36% to sexual abuse by age 17. An analysis comparing unexposed respondents to those exposed to physical or sexual abuse did not yield any significant differences in adult memory performance. However, two developmental time periods emerged as important for shaping memory following exposure to sexual abuse, but in opposite ways. Relative to non-exposed respondents, those exposed to sexual abuse during early childhood (ages 3-5), had better number recall and those first exposed during adolescence (ages 14-17) had worse number recall. However, other variables, including socioeconomic status, played a larger role (than maltreatment) on working and short-term memory. We conclude that a simple examination of "exposed" versus "unexposed" respondents may obscure potentially important within-group differences that are revealed by examining the effects of age at onset to maltreatment. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

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.

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

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.

The development of episodic memory: items, contexts, and relations.

PubMed

Yim, Hyungwook; Dennis, Simon J; Sloutsky, Vladimir M

2013-11-01

Episodic memory involves the formation of relational structures that bind information about the stimuli people experience to the contexts in which they experience them. The ability to form and retain such structures may be at the core of the development of episodic memory. In the first experiment reported here, 4- and 7-year-olds were presented with paired-associate learning tasks requiring memory structures of different complexity. A multinomial-processing tree model was applied to estimate the use of different structures in the two age groups. The use of two-way list-context-to-target structures and three-way structures was found to increase between the ages of 4 and 7. Experiment 2 demonstrated that the ability to form increasingly complex relational memory structures develops between the ages of 4 and 7 years and that this development extends well into adulthood. These results have important implications for theories of memory development.

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.

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.

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…

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.

Phase-Change Thermoplastic Elastomer Blends for Tunable Shape Memory by Physical Design

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

Mineart, Kenneth P.; Tallury, Syamal S.; Li, Tao

Shape-memory polymers (SMPs) change shape upon exposure to an environmental stimulus.1-3 They are of considerable importance in the ongoing development of stimuli-responsive biomedical4,5 and deployable6 devices, and their function depends on the presence of two components.7 The first provides mechanical rigidity to ensure retention of one or more temporary strain states and also serves as a switch capable of releasing a temporary strain state. The second, a network-forming component, is required to restore the polymer to a prior strain state upon stimulation. In thermally-activated SMPs, the switching element typically relies on a melting or glass transition temperature,1-3,7 and broad ormore » multiple switches permit several temporary strain states.8-10 Chemical integration of network-forming and switching species endows SMPs with specific properties.8,10,11 Here, we demonstrate that phase-change materials incorporated into network-forming macromolecules yield shape-memory polymer blends (SMPBs) with physically tunable switching temperatures and recovery kinetics for use in multi-responsive laminates and shape-change electronics.« less

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.

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.

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.

Experimental Investigation on the Mechanical Instability of Superelastic NiTi Shape Memory Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao, Yao; Zeng, Pan; Lei, Liping

2016-09-01

In this paper, primary attention is paid to the mechanical instability of superelastic NiTi shape memory alloy (SMA) during localized forward transformation at different temperatures. By inhibiting the localized phase transformation, we can obtain the up-down-up mechanical response of NiTi SMA, which is closely related to the intrinsic material softening during localized martensitic transformation. Furthermore, the material parameters of the up-down-up stress-strain curve are extracted, in such a way that this database can be utilized for simulation and validation of the theoretical analysis. It is found that during forward transformation, the upper yield stress, lower yield stress, Maxwell stress, and nucleation stress of NiTi SMA exhibit linear dependence on temperature. The relation between nucleation stress and temperature can be explained by the famous Clausius-Clapeyron equation, while the relation between upper/lower yield stress and temperature lacks theoretical study, which needs further investigation.

Elastic Constants of Ni-Mn-Ga Magnetic Shape Memory Alloys

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

Stipcich, M.; Manosa, L.; Planes, A.

2004-01-01

We have measured the adiabatic second order elastic constants of two Ni-Mn-Ga magnetic shape memory crystals with different martensitic transition temperatures, using ultrasonic methods. The temperature dependence of the elastic constants has been followed across the ferromagnetic transition and down to the martensitic transition temperature. Within experimental errors no noticeable change in any of the elastic constants has been observed at the Curie point. The temperature dependence of the shear elastic constant C' has been found to be very different for the two alloys. Such a different behavior is in agreement with recent theoretical predictions for systems undergoing multi-stage structuralmore » transitions.« less

Biodegradable thermoplastic polyurethanes incorporating polyhedral oligosilsesquioxane.

PubMed

Knight, Pamela T; Lee, Kyung Min; Qin, Haihu; Mather, Patrick T

2008-09-01

A new hybrid thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) system that incorporates an organic, biodegradable poly(D, L-lactide) soft block with a hard block bearing the inorganic polyhedral oligosilsesquioxane (POSS) moiety is introduced and studied. Changes in the polyol composition made through variation of the hydrophilic initiator molecular weight show direct control of the final transition temperatures. Incorporating POSS into the hard segments allows for excellent elasticity above T(g), as evidenced with dynamic mechanical analysis, not seen in most other biodegradable materials. This elasticity is attributed to physical cross-links formed in the hard block through POSS crystallization, as revealed with wide-angle X-ray diffraction. Increasing the POSS incorporation level in the TPU hard block was observed to increase crystallinity and also the rigidity of the material. The highest incorporation, using a statistical average of three POSS units per hard block, demonstrated one-way shape memory with excellent shape fixing capabilities. In vitro degradation of this sample was also investigated during a two month period. Moderate water uptake and dramatic molecular weight decrease were immediately observed although large mass loss (approximately 20 wt %) was not observed until the two month time point.

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.

3D Printed Reversible Shape Changing Components with Stimuli Responsive Materials

PubMed Central

Mao, Yiqi; Ding, Zhen; Yuan, Chao; Ai, Shigang; Isakov, Michael; Wu, Jiangtao; Wang, Tiejun; Dunn, Martin L.; Qi, H. Jerry

2016-01-01

The creation of reversibly-actuating components that alter their shapes in a controllable manner in response to environmental stimuli is a grand challenge in active materials, structures, and robotics. Here we demonstrate a new reversible shape-changing component design concept enabled by 3D printing two stimuli responsive polymers—shape memory polymers and hydrogels—in prescribed 3D architectures. This approach uses the swelling of a hydrogel as the driving force for the shape change, and the temperature-dependent modulus of a shape memory polymer to regulate the time of such shape change. Controlling the temperature and aqueous environment allows switching between two stable configurations – the structures are relatively stiff and can carry load in each – without any mechanical loading and unloading. Specific shape changing scenarios, e.g., based on bending, or twisting in prescribed directions, are enabled via the controlled interplay between the active materials and the 3D printed architectures. The physical phenomena are complex and nonintuitive, and so to help understand the interplay of geometric, material, and environmental stimuli parameters we develop 3D nonlinear finite element models. Finally, we create several 2D and 3D shape changing components that demonstrate the role of key parameters and illustrate the broad application potential of the proposed approach. PMID:27109063

3D Printed Reversible Shape Changing Components with Stimuli Responsive Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mao, Yiqi; Ding, Zhen; Yuan, Chao; Ai, Shigang; Isakov, Michael; Wu, Jiangtao; Wang, Tiejun; Dunn, Martin L.; Qi, H. Jerry

2016-04-01

The creation of reversibly-actuating components that alter their shapes in a controllable manner in response to environmental stimuli is a grand challenge in active materials, structures, and robotics. Here we demonstrate a new reversible shape-changing component design concept enabled by 3D printing two stimuli responsive polymers—shape memory polymers and hydrogels—in prescribed 3D architectures. This approach uses the swelling of a hydrogel as the driving force for the shape change, and the temperature-dependent modulus of a shape memory polymer to regulate the time of such shape change. Controlling the temperature and aqueous environment allows switching between two stable configurations - the structures are relatively stiff and can carry load in each - without any mechanical loading and unloading. Specific shape changing scenarios, e.g., based on bending, or twisting in prescribed directions, are enabled via the controlled interplay between the active materials and the 3D printed architectures. The physical phenomena are complex and nonintuitive, and so to help understand the interplay of geometric, material, and environmental stimuli parameters we develop 3D nonlinear finite element models. Finally, we create several 2D and 3D shape changing components that demonstrate the role of key parameters and illustrate the broad application potential of the proposed approach.

Reconfigurable and Reprocessable Thermoset Shape Memory Polymer with Synergetic Triple Dynamic Covalent Bonds.

PubMed

Wang, Yongwei; Pan, Yi; Zheng, Zhaohui; Ding, Xiaobin

2018-04-20

Degradable shape memory polymers (SMPs), especially for polyurethane-based SMPs, have shown great potential for biomedical applications. How to reasonably fabricate SMPs with the ideal combination of degradability, shape reconfigurability, and reprocessability is a critical issue and remains a challenge for medical disposable materials. Herein, a shape memory poly(urethane-urea) with synergetic triple dynamic covalent bonds is reported via embedding polycaprolactone unit into poly(urethane-urea) with the hindered urea dynamic bond. The single polymer network is biodegradable, thermadapt, and reprocessable, without sacrificing the outstanding shape memory performance. Such a shape memory network with plasticity and reprocessability is expected to have significant and positive impact on the medical device industry. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

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.

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.

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.

Strategic design and fabrication of acrylic shape memory polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Ju Hyuk; Kim, Hansu; Ryoun Youn, Jae; Song, Young Seok

2017-08-01

Modulation of thermomechanics nature is a critical issue for an optimized use of shape memory polymers (SMPs). In this study, a strategic approach was proposed to control the transition temperature of SMPs. Free radical vinyl polymerization was employed for tailoring and preparing acrylic SMPs. Transition temperatures of the shape memory tri-copolymers were tuned by changing the composition of monomers. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses were carried out to evaluate the chemical structures and compositions of the synthesized SMPs. The thermomechanical properties and shape memory performance of the SMPs were also examined by performing dynamic mechanical thermal analysis. Numerical simulation based on a finite element method provided consistent results with experimental cyclic shape memory tests of the specimens. Transient shape recovery tests were conducted and optical transparence of the samples was identified. We envision that the materials proposed in this study can help develop a new type of shape-memory devices in biomedical and aerospace engineering applications.

A micro-coupling for micro mechanical systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Wei; Zhou, Zhixiong; Zhang, Bi; Xiao, Yunya

2016-05-01

The error motions of micro mechanical systems, such as micro-spindles, increase with the increasing of the rotational speed, which not only decreases the rotational accuracy, but also promotes instability and limits the maximum operational speed. One effective way to deal with it is to use micro-flexible couplings between the drive and driven shafts so as to reduce error motions of the driven shaft. But the conventional couplings, such as diaphragm couplings, elastomeric couplings, bellows couplings, and grooved couplings, etc, cannot be directly used because of their large and complicated structures. This study presents a novel micro-coupling that consists of a flexible coupling and a shape memory alloy (SMA)-based clamp for micro mechanical systems. It is monolithic and can be directly machined from a shaft. The study performs design optimization and provides manufacturing considerations, including thermo-mechanical training of the SMA ring for the desired Two-Way-Shape-Memory effect (TWSMe). A prototype micro-coupling and a prototype micro-spindle using the proposed coupling are fabricated and tested. The testing results show that the prototype micro-coupling can bear a torque of above 5 N • mm and an axial force of 8.5 N and be fitted with an SMA ring for clamping action at room temperature (15 °C) and unclamping action below-5 °C. At the same time, the prototype micro-coupling can work at a rotational speed of above 200 kr/min with the application to a high-speed precision micro-spindle. Moreover, the radial runout error of the artifact, as a substitute for the micro-tool, is less than 3 μm while that of turbine shaft is above 7 μm. It can be concluded that the micro-coupling successfully accommodates misalignment errors of the prototype micro-spindle. This research proposes a micro-coupling which is featured with an SMA ring, and it is designed to clamp two shafts, and has smooth transmission, simple assembly, compact structure, zero-maintenance and balanced motions.

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.

Women's collective constructions of embodied practices through memory work: Cartesian dualism in memories of sweating and pain.

PubMed

Gillies, Val; Harden, Angela; Johnson, Katherine; Reavey, Paula; Strange, Vicki; Willig, Carla

2004-03-01

The research presented in this paper uses memory work as a method to explore six women's collective constructions of two embodied practices, sweating and pain. The paper identifies limitations in the ways in which social constructionist research has theorized the relationship between discourse and materiality, and it proposes an approach to the study of embodiment which enjoins, rather than bridges, the discursive and the non-discursive. The paper presents an analysis of 25 memories of sweating and pain which suggests that Cartesian dualism is central to the women's accounts of their experiences. However, such dualism does not operate as a stable organizing principle. Rather, it offers two strategies for the performance of a split between mind and body. The paper traces the ways in which dualism can be both functional and restrictive, and explores the tensions between these two forms. The paper concludes by identifiying opportunities and limitations associated with memory work as a method for studying embodiment.

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.

Damage healing ability of a shape-memory-polymer-based particulate composite with small thermoplastic contents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nji, Jones; Li, Guoqiang

2012-02-01

The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential of a shape-memory-polymer (SMP)-based particulate composite to heal structural-length scale damage with small thermoplastic additive contents through a close-then-heal (CTH) self-healing scheme that was introduced in a previous study (Li and Uppu 2010 Comput. Sci. Technol. 70 1419-27). The idea is to achieve reasonable healing efficiencies with minimal sacrifice in structural load capacity. By first closing cracks, the gap between two crack surfaces is narrowed and a lesser amount of thermoplastic particles is required to achieve healing. The particulate composite was fabricated by dispersing copolyester thermoplastic particles in a shape memory polymer matrix. It is found that, for small thermoplastic contents of less than 10%, the CTH scheme followed in this study heals structural-length scale damage in the SMP particulate composite to a meaningful extent and with less sacrifice of structural capacity.

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.

Biases in attention and memory for body shape images in eating disorders.

PubMed

Pona, Ashleigh A; Jones, Angela C; Masterson, Tracy L; Ben-Porath, Denise D

2017-12-28

To investigate attentional and memorial biases towards body shape pictures among female patients with clinical eating disorders and healthy female controls. A visual dot-probe task was used to assess attention towards pictures reflecting either a thin, normal, or obese female body shape. Pictures were presented in pairs; each pair depicted two different body shapes and were presented twice. Participant responses were compared across time and population. Overall, the eating disorder patients responded more slowly than controls, F(1,63) = 20.32, p < .001. Both groups showed an attentional bias towards the larger of two body shapes, F(1,63) = 4.30, p = .04, and responded more quickly the second time they viewed the picture pairs, F(1,63) = 33.80, p < .001. Upon second viewing of picture pairs, the eating disorder patients had a larger decrease in reaction time (86 ms) than the control sample (33 ms) only when both pictures included extreme body shapes (thin and obese); the decrease in reaction time when one of the pictures included a normal body shape was the same across groups upon second viewing (eating disorder: 37 ms; control: 32 ms), F(1,63) = 9.32, p = .003. These findings suggest that individuals with eating disorders may be biased towards recall of dichotomous and/or extreme body shape images. While it remains unclear whether attentional and/or memorial bias is a risk, maintenance, or causal factor in eating disorders, future studies should employ longitudinal, prospective research designs to address these questions. Level II, comparative study.

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.

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

High Performance Computing (HPC)-Enabled Computational Study on the Feasibility of using Shape Memory Alloys for Gas Turbine Blade Actuation

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-11-01

Feasibility of using Shape Memory Alloys for Gas Turbine Blade Actuation by Kathryn Esham, Luis Bravo, Anindya Ghoshal, Muthuvel Murugan, and Michael...Computational Study on the Feasibility of using Shape Memory Alloys for Gas Turbine Blade Actuation by Luis Bravo, Anindya Ghoshal, Muthuvel...High Performance Computing (HPC)-Enabled Computational Study on the Feasibility of using Shape Memory Alloys for Gas Turbine Blade Actuation 5a

Deformation and Phase Transformation Processes in Polycrystalline NiTi and NiTiHf High Temperature Shape Memory Alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Benafan, Othmane

2012-01-01

The deformation and transformation mechanisms of polycrystalline Ni49.9Ti50.1 and Ni50.3Ti29.7Hf20 (in at.%) shape memory alloys were investigated by combined experimental and modeling efforts aided by an in situ neutron diffraction technique at stress and temperature. The thermomechanical response of the low temperature martensite, the high temperature austenite phases, and changes between these two states during thermomechanical cycling were probed and reported. In the cubic austenite phase, stress-induced martensite, deformation twinning and slip processes were observed which helped in constructing a deformation map that contained the limits over which each of the identified mechanisms was dominant. Deformation of the monoclinic martensitic phase was also investigated where the microstructural changes (texture, lattice strains, and phase fractions) during room-temperature deformation and subsequent thermal cycling were compared to the bulk macroscopic response. When cycling between these two phases, the evolution of inelastic strains, along with the shape setting procedures were examined and used for the optimization of the transformation properties as a function of deformation levels and temperatures. Finally, this work was extended to the development of multiaxial capabilities at elevated temperatures for the in situ neutron diffraction measurements of shape memory alloys on the VULCAN Diffractometer at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

A ‘frozen volume’ transition model and working mechanism for the shape memory effect in amorphous polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Haibao; Wang, Xiaodong; Yao, Yongtao; Qing Fu, Yong

2018-06-01

Phenomenological models based on frozen volume parameters could well predict shape recovery behavior of shape memory polymers (SMPs), but the physical meaning of using the frozen volume parameters to describe thermomechanical properties has not been well-established. In this study, the fundamental working mechanisms of the shape memory effect (SME) in amorphous SMPs, whose temperature-dependent viscoelastic behavior follows the Eyring equation, have been established with the considerations of both internal stress and its resulted frozen volume. The stress-strain constitutive relation was initially modeled to quantitatively describe effects of internal stresses at the macromolecular scale based on the transient network theory. A phenomenological ‘frozen volume’ model was then established to characterize the macromolecule structure and SME of amorphous SMPs based on a two-site stress-relaxation model. Effects of the internal stress, frozen volume and strain rate on shape memory behavior and thermomechanical properties of the SMP were investigated. Finally, the simulation results were compared with the experimental results reported in the literature, and good agreements between the theoretical and experimental results were achieved. The novelty and key differences of our newly proposed model with respect to the previous reports are (1). The ‘frozen volume’ in our study is caused by the internal stress and governed by the two-site model theory, thus has a good physical meaning. (2). The model can be applied to characterize and predict both the thermal and thermomechanical behaviors of SMPs based on the constitutive relationship with internal stress parameters. It is expected to provide a power tool to investigate the thermomechanical behavior of the SMPs, of which both the macromolecular structure characteristics and SME could be predicted using this ‘frozen volume’ model.

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.

Inter-crosslinking network gels having both shape memory and high ductility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amano, Yoshitaka; Hidema, Ruri; Furukawa, Hidemitsu

2012-04-01

Medical treatment for injuries should be easy and quick in many accidents. Plasters or bandages are frequently used to wrap and fix injured parts. If plasters or bandages have additional smart functions, such as cooling, removability and repeatability, they will be much more useful and effective. Here we propose innovative biocompatible materials, that is, nontoxic high-strength shape-memory gels as novel smart medical materials. These smart gels were prepared from two monomers (DMAAm and SA), a polymer (HPC), and an inter-crosslinking agent (Karenz-MOI). In the synthesis of the gels, 1) a shape-memory copolymer network is made from the DMAAm and the SA, and 2) the copolymer and the HPC are crosslinked by the Karenz-MOI. Thus the crosslinking points are connected only between the different polymers. This is our original technique of developing a new network structure of gels, named Inter-Crosslinking Network (ICN). The ICN gels achieve high ductility, going up to 700% strain in tensile tests, while the ICN gels contain about 44% water. Moreover the SA has temperature dependence due to its crystallization properties; thus the ICN gels obtain shape memory properties and are named ICN-SMG. While the Young's modulus of the ICN-SMG is large below their crystallization temperature and the gels behave like plastic materials, the modulus becomes smaller above the temperature and the gels turn back to their original shape.

Thermomechanical behavior and microstructural evolution of a Ni(Pd)-rich Ni 24.3Ti 49.7Pd 26 high temperature shape memory alloy

DOE PAGES

Benafan, O.; Garg, A.; Noebe, R. D.; ...

2015-04-20

We investigated the effect of thermomechanical cycling on a slightly Ni(Pd)-rich Ni 24.3Ti 49.7Pd 26 (near stochiometric Ni–Ti basis with Pd replacing Ni) high temperature shape memory alloy. Furthermore, aged tensile specimens (400 °C/24 h/furnace cooled) were subjected to constant-stress thermal cycling in conjunction with microstructural assessment via in situ neutron diffraction and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), before and after testing. It was shown that in spite of the slightly Ni(Pd)-rich composition and heat treatment used to precipitation harden the alloy, the material exhibited dimensional instabilities with residual strain accumulation reaching 1.5% over 10 thermomechanical cycles. This was attributed tomore » insufficient strengthening of the material (insufficient volume fraction of precipitate phase) to prevent plasticity from occurring concomitant with the martensitic transformation. In situ neutron diffraction revealed the presence of retained martensite while cycling under 300 MPa stress, which was also confirmed by transmission electron microscopy of post-cycled samples. Neutron diffraction analysis of the post-thermally-cycled samples under no-load revealed residual lattice strains in the martensite and austenite phases, remnant texture in the martensite phase, and peak broadening of the austenite phase. The texture we developed in the martensite phase was composed mainly of those martensitic tensile variants observed during thermomechanical cycling. Presence of a high density of dislocations, deformation twins, and retained martensite was revealed in the austenite state via in-situ TEM in the post-cycled material, providing an explanation for the observed peak broadening in the neutron diffraction spectra. Despite the dimensional instabilities, this alloy exhibited a biased transformation strain on the order of 3% and a two-way shape memory effect (TWSME) strain of ~2%, at relatively high actuation temperatures.« less

A memory span of one? Object identification in 6.5-month-old infants.

PubMed

Káldy, Zsuzsa; Leslie, Alan M

2005-09-01

Infants' abilities to identify objects based on their perceptual features develop gradually during the first year and possibly beyond. Earlier we reported [Káldy, Z., & Leslie, A. M. (2003). Identification of objects in 9-month-old infants: Integrating 'what' and 'where' information. Developmental Science, 6, 360-373] that infants at 9 months of age are able to use shape information to identify two objects and follow their spatiotemporal trajectories behind occlusion. On the other hand, another recent study suggests that infants at 4-5 months of age cannot identify objects by features and bind them to locations [Mareschal, D., & Johnson, M. H. (2003). The "what" and "where" of object representations in infancy. Cognition, 88, 259-276]. In the current study, we investigated the developmental steps between these two benchmark ages by testing 6.5-month-old infants. Experiment 1 and 2 adapted the paradigm used in our previous studies with 9-month-olds that involves two objects hidden sequentially behind separate occluders. This technique allows us to address object identification and to examine whether only one or both object identities are being tracked. Results of experiment 1 showed that 6.5-month-old infants could identify at least one of two objects based on shape and experiment 2 found that this ability holds for only one, the last object hidden. We propose that at this age, infants' working memory capacity is limited to one occluded object if there is a second intervening hiding. If their attention is distracted by an intervening object during the memory maintenance period, the memory of the first object identity appears to be lost. Results of experiment 3 supported this hypothesis with a simpler one-screen setup. Finally, results of experiment 4 show that temporal decay of the memory trace (without an intervening hiding) by itself cannot explain the observed pattern of results. Taken together, our findings suggest that at six months of age infants can store but a single object representation with bound shape information, most likely in the ventral stream. The memory span of one may be due to immaturity of the neural structures underlying working memory such that intervening items overwrite the existing storage.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

[Numerical modeling of shape memory alloy vascular stent's self-expandable progress and "optimized grid" of stent].

PubMed

Xu, Qiang; Liu, Yulan; Wang, Biao; He, Jin

2008-10-01

Vascular stent is an important medical appliance for angiocardiopathy. Its key deformation process is the expandable progress of stent in the vessel. The important deformation behaviour corresponds to two mechanics targets: deformation and stress. This paper is devoted to the research and development of vascular stent with proprietary intellectual property rights. The design of NiTinol self-expandable stent is optimized by means of finite element software. ANSYS is used to build the finite element simulation model of vascular stent; the molding material is NiTinol shape memory alloy. To cope with the factors that affect the structure of stent, the shape of grid and so on, the self-expanding process of Nitinol stent is simulated through computer. By making a comparison between two kinds of stents with similar grid structure, we present a new concept of "Optimized Grid" of stent.

A Shape Memory Alloy Based Cryogenic Thermal Conduction Switch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Notardonato, W. U.; Krishnan, V. B.; Singh, J. D.; Woodruff, T. R.; Vaidyanathan, R.

2005-01-01

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) can produce large strains when deformed (e.g., up to 8%). Heating results in a phase transformation and associated recovery of all the accumulated strain. This strain recovery can occur against large forces, resulting in their use as actuators. Thus an SMA element can integrate both sensory and actuation functions, by inherently sensing a change in temperature and actuating by undergoing a shape change as a result of a temperature-induced phase transformation. Two aspects of our work on cryogenic SMAs are addressed here. First - a shape memory alloy based cryogenic thermal conduction switch for operation between dewars of liquid methane and liquid oxygen in a common bulkhead arrangement is discussed. Such a switch integrates the sensor element and the actuator element and can be used to create a variable thermal sink to other cryogenic tanks for liquefaction, densification, and zero boil-off systems for advanced spaceport applications. Second - fabrication via arc-melting and subsequent materials testing of SMAs with cryogenic transformation temperatures for use in the aforementioned switch is discussed.

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

The protective effect of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) on traumatic brain injury (TBI) induced memory deficits in rats.

PubMed

Karimi, Seyed Asaad; Hosseinmardi, Narges; Janahmadi, Mahyar; Sayyah, Mohammad; Hajisoltani, Razieh

2017-09-01

Traumatic brain injury (TBI), as an expanding public health epidemic, is a common cause of death among youth. TBI is associated with cognitive deficits and memory impairment. Hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S), a novel gaseous mediator, has been recognized as an important neuromodulator and neuroprotective agent in the central nervous system. In the present study the potential neuroprotective role of sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS), an H 2 S donor on TBI induced memory deficit in a rat model of controlled cortical impact (CCI) injury was investigated. CCI model was used to induce TBI. Male rats were randomly assigned into the following groups: control, sham, sham treated with NaHS, TBI, and TBI treated with NaHS (3 and 5mg/kg). NaHS was injected intraperitoneally 5min before TBI induction. Learning and memory were assessed using Morris water maze (MWM) on days 8-12 following injury. CCI resulted in MWM deficits. Injured animals showed a slower rate of acquisition with respect to the sham-operated animals [F (1, 24)=13.97, P<0.01, two-way ANOVA]. NaHS improved spatial memory impairment of injured rats. Treatment with NaHS (5 mg/kg) decreased the escape latency [F (1, 24)=7.559, P<0.05, two-way ANOVA] and traveled distance [F (1, 12)=6.398, P<0.05, Two way ANOVA)]. In probe test, injured animals spent less time in target zone (P<0.05, unpaired t-test) and NaHS did not have any effect on this parameter (p>0.05, one way ANOVA). These findings suggest that NaHS has a neuroprotective effect on TBI-induced memory impairment in rats. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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

Shape forming by thermal expansion mismatch and shape memory locking in polymer/elastomer laminates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Chao; Ding, Zhen; Wang, T. J.; Dunn, Martin L.; Qi, H. Jerry

2017-10-01

This paper studies a novel method to fabricate three-dimensional (3D) structure from 2D thermo-responsive shape memory polymer (SMP)/elastomer bilayer laminate. In this method, the shape change is actuated by the thermal mismatch strain between the SMP and the elastomer layers upon heating. However, the glass transition behavior of the SMP locks the material into a new 3D shape that is stable even upon cooling. Therefore, the second shape becomes a new permanent shape of the laminate. A theoretical model that accounts for the temperature-dependent thermomechanical behavior of the SMP material and thermal mismatch strain between the two layers is developed to better understand the underlying physics. Model predictions and experiments show good agreement and indicate that the theoretical model can well predict the bending behavior of the bilayer laminate. The model is then used in the optimal design of geometrical configuration and material selection. The latter also illustrates the requirement of thermomechanical behaviors of the SMP to lock the shape. Based on the fundamental understandings, several self-folding structures are demonstrated by the bilayer laminate design.

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.

Specific Previous Experience Affects Perception of Harmony and Meter

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Creel, Sarah C.

2011-01-01

Prior knowledge shapes our experiences, but which prior knowledge shapes which experiences? This question is addressed in the domain of music perception. Three experiments were used to determine whether listeners activate specific musical memories during music listening. Each experiment provided listeners with one of two musical contexts that was…

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.

The public and private history of eugenics: an introduction.

PubMed

Burke, Chloe S; Castaneda, Christopher J

2007-01-01

Inspired by our experience addressing the legacy of eugenics at California State University, Sacramento, this special issue presents an array of articles representative of diverse approaches to the historical investigation of eugenics. This article provides an introduction to the history of eugenics and explores the ways in which public history is particularly well suited to shape the historical memory of eugenics and encourage dialogue about contemporary biotechnologies.

Memory Lane Is a Two-Way Street.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sprenger, Marilee

1998-01-01

Our memories are not necessarily "bad," but stored in different areas. By understanding the five memory lanes (semantic, episodic, procedural, automatic, and emotional), a high school English teacher discovered why her students could not do fractions (to calculate grades) in English class. Paper-and-pencil tests can be redesigned to assess memory…

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.

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.

Bistable Microvalve For Use With Microcatheter System

DOEpatents

Seward, Kirk Patrick

2003-12-16

A bistable microvalve of shape memory material is operatively connected to a microcatheter. The bistable microvalve includes a tip that can be closed off until it is in the desired position. Once it is in position it can be opened and closed. The system uses heat and pressure to open and close the microvalve. The shape memory material will change stiffness and shape when heated above a transition temperature. The shape memory material is adapted to move from a first shape to a second shape, either open or closed, where it can perform a desired function.

Bistable microvalve and microcatheter system

DOEpatents

Seward, Kirk Patrick

2003-05-20

A bistable microvalve of shape memory material is operatively connected to a microcatheter. The bistable microvalve includes a tip that can be closed off until it is in the desired position. Once it is in position it can opened and closed. The system uses heat and pressure to open and close the microvalve. The shape memory material will change stiffness and shape when heated above a transition temperature. The shape memory material is adapted to move from a first shape to a second shape, either open or closed, where it can perform a desired function.

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.

DDGIPS: a general image processing system in robot vision

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Yuan; Ying, Jun; Ye, Xiuqing; Gu, Weikang

2000-10-01

Real-Time Image Processing is the key work in robot vision. With the limitation of the hardware technique, many algorithm-oriented firmware systems were designed in the past. But their architectures were not flexible enough to achieve a multi-algorithm development system. Because of the rapid development of microelectronics technique, many high performance DSP chips and high density FPGA chips have come to life, and this makes it possible to construct a more flexible architecture in real-time image processing system. In this paper, a Double DSP General Image Processing System (DDGIPS) is concerned. We try to construct a two-DSP-based FPGA-computational system with two TMS320C6201s. The TMS320C6x devices are fixed-point processors based on the advanced VLIW CPU, which has eight functional units, including two multipliers and six arithmetic logic units. These features make C6x a good candidate for a general purpose system. In our system, the two TMS320C6201s each has a local memory space, and they also have a shared system memory space which enables them to intercommunicate and exchange data efficiently. At the same time, they can be directly inter-connected in star-shaped architecture. All of these are under the control of a FPGA group. As the core of the system, FPGA plays a very important role: it takes charge of DPS control, DSP communication, memory space access arbitration and the communication between the system and the host machine. And taking advantage of reconfiguring FPGA, all of the interconnection between the two DSP or between DSP and FPGA can be changed. In this way, users can easily rebuild the real-time image processing system according to the data stream and the task of the application and gain great flexibility.

DDGIPS: a general image processing system in robot vision

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Yuan; Ying, Jun; Ye, Xiuqing; Gu, Weikang

2000-10-01

Real-Time Image Processing is the key work in robot vision. With the limitation of the hardware technique, many algorithm-oriented firmware systems were designed in the past. But their architectures were not flexible enough to achieve a multi- algorithm development system. Because of the rapid development of microelectronics technique, many high performance DSP chips and high density FPGA chips have come to life, and this makes it possible to construct a more flexible architecture in real-time image processing system. In this paper, a Double DSP General Image Processing System (DDGIPS) is concerned. We try to construct a two-DSP-based FPGA-computational system with two TMS320C6201s. The TMS320C6x devices are fixed-point processors based on the advanced VLIW CPU, which has eight functional units, including two multipliers and six arithmetic logic units. These features make C6x a good candidate for a general purpose system. In our system, the two TMS320C6210s each has a local memory space, and they also have a shared system memory space which enable them to intercommunicate and exchange data efficiently. At the same time, they can be directly interconnected in star- shaped architecture. All of these are under the control of FPGA group. As the core of the system, FPGA plays a very important role: it takes charge of DPS control, DSP communication, memory space access arbitration and the communication between the system and the host machine. And taking advantage of reconfiguring FPGA, all of the interconnection between the two DSP or between DSP and FPGA can be changed. In this way, users can easily rebuild the real-time image processing system according to the data stream and the task of the application and gain great flexibility.

Reflections of the social environment in chimpanzee memory: applying rational analysis beyond humans.

PubMed

Stevens, Jeffrey R; Marewski, Julian N; Schooler, Lael J; Gilby, Ian C

2016-08-01

In cognitive science, the rational analysis framework allows modelling of how physical and social environments impose information-processing demands onto cognitive systems. In humans, for example, past social contact among individuals predicts their future contact with linear and power functions. These features of the human environment constrain the optimal way to remember information and probably shape how memory records are retained and retrieved. We offer a primer on how biologists can apply rational analysis to study animal behaviour. Using chimpanzees ( Pan troglodytes ) as a case study, we modelled 19 years of observational data on their social contact patterns. Much like humans, the frequency of past encounters in chimpanzees linearly predicted future encounters, and the recency of past encounters predicted future encounters with a power function. Consistent with the rational analyses carried out for human memory, these findings suggest that chimpanzee memory performance should reflect those environmental regularities. In re-analysing existing chimpanzee memory data, we found that chimpanzee memory patterns mirrored their social contact patterns. Our findings hint that human and chimpanzee memory systems may have evolved to solve similar information-processing problems. Overall, rational analysis offers novel theoretical and methodological avenues for the comparative study of cognition.

Reflections of the social environment in chimpanzee memory: applying rational analysis beyond humans

PubMed Central

Marewski, Julian N.; Schooler, Lael J.; Gilby, Ian C.

2016-01-01

In cognitive science, the rational analysis framework allows modelling of how physical and social environments impose information-processing demands onto cognitive systems. In humans, for example, past social contact among individuals predicts their future contact with linear and power functions. These features of the human environment constrain the optimal way to remember information and probably shape how memory records are retained and retrieved. We offer a primer on how biologists can apply rational analysis to study animal behaviour. Using chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) as a case study, we modelled 19 years of observational data on their social contact patterns. Much like humans, the frequency of past encounters in chimpanzees linearly predicted future encounters, and the recency of past encounters predicted future encounters with a power function. Consistent with the rational analyses carried out for human memory, these findings suggest that chimpanzee memory performance should reflect those environmental regularities. In re-analysing existing chimpanzee memory data, we found that chimpanzee memory patterns mirrored their social contact patterns. Our findings hint that human and chimpanzee memory systems may have evolved to solve similar information-processing problems. Overall, rational analysis offers novel theoretical and methodological avenues for the comparative study of cognition. PMID:27853606

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.

Modeling the Coupled Chemo-Thermo-Mechanical Behavior of Amorphous Polymer Networks.

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

Zimmerman, Jonathan A.; Nguyen, Thao D.; Xiao, Rui

2015-02-01

Amorphous polymers exhibit a rich landscape of time-dependent behavior including viscoelasticity, structural relaxation, and viscoplasticity. These time-dependent mechanisms can be exploited to achieve shape-memory behavior, which allows the material to store a programmed deformed shape indefinitely and to recover entirely the undeformed shape in response to specific environmental stimulus. The shape-memory performance of amorphous polymers depends on the coordination of multiple physical mechanisms, and considerable opportunities exist to tailor the polymer structure and shape-memory programming procedure to achieve the desired performance. The goal of this project was to use a combination of theoretical, numerical and experimental methods to investigate themore » effect of shape memory programming, thermo-mechanical properties, and physical and environmental aging on the shape memory performance. Physical and environmental aging occurs during storage and through exposure to solvents, such as water, and can significantly alter the viscoelastic behavior and shape memory behavior of amorphous polymers. This project – executed primarily by Professor Thao Nguyen and Graduate Student Rui Xiao at Johns Hopkins University in support of a DOE/NNSA Presidential Early Career Award in Science and Engineering (PECASE) – developed a theoretical framework for chemothermo- mechanical behavior of amorphous polymers to model the effects of physical aging and solvent-induced environmental factors on their thermoviscoelastic behavior.« less

The effects of cold rolling and the subsequent heat treatments on the shape memory and the superelasticity characteristics of Cu73Al16Mn11 shape memory alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Babacan, N.; Ma, J.; Turkbas, O. S.; Karaman, I.; Kockar, B.

2018-01-01

In the present study, the effect of thermo-mechanical treatments on the shape memory and the superelastic characteristics of Cu73Al16Mn11 (at%) shape memory alloy were investigated. 10%, 50% and 70% cold rolling and subsequent heat treatment processes were conducted to achieve strengthening via grain size refinement. 70% grain size reduction compared to the homogenized condition was obtained using 70% cold rolling and subsequent recrystallization heat treatment technique. Moreover, 10% cold rolling was applied to homogenized specimen to reveal the influence of the low percentage cold rolling reduction with no heat treatment on shape memory properties of Cu73Al16Mn11 (at%) alloy. Stress free transformation temperatures, monotonic tension and superelasticity behaviors of these samples were compared with those of the as-aged sample. Isobaric heating-cooling experiments were also conducted to see the dimensional stability of the samples as a function of applied stress. The 70% grain-refined sample exhibited better dimensional stability showing reduced residual strain levels upon thermal cycling under constant stress compared with the as-aged material. However, no improvement was achieved with grain size reduction in the superelasticity experiments. This distinctive observation was attributed to the difference in the magnitude of the stress levels achieved during two different types of experiments which were the isobaric heating-cooling and superelasticity tests. Intergranular fracture due to the stress concentration overcame the strengthening effect via grain refinement in the superelasticity tests at higher stress values. On the other hand, the strength of the material and resistance of material against plastic deformation upon phase transformation were increased as a result of the grain refinement at lower stress values in the isobaric heating-cooling experiments.

A review of shape memory material’s applications in the offshore oil and gas industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patil, Devendra; Song, Gangbing

2017-09-01

The continuously increasing demand for oil and gas and the depleting number of new large reservoir discoveries have made it necessary for the oil and gas industry to investigate and design new, improved technologies that unlock new sources of energy and squeeze more from existing resources. Shape memory materials (SMM), with their remarkable properties such as the shape memory effect (SME), corrosion resistance, and superelasticity have shown great potential to meet these demands by significantly improving the functionality and durability of offshore systems. Shape memory alloy (SMA) and shape memory polymer (SMP) are two types of most commonly used SMM’s and are ideally suited for use over a range of robust engineering applications found within the oil and gas industry, such as deepwater actuators, valves, underwater connectors, seals, self-torqueing fasteners and sand management. The potential high strain and high force output of the SME of SMA can be harnessed to create a lightweight, solid state alternative to conventional hydraulic, pneumatic or motor based actuator systems. The phase transformation property enables the SMA to withstand erosive stresses, which is useful for minimizing the effect of erosion often experienced by downhole devices. The superelasticity of the SMA provides good energy dissipation, and can overcome the various defects and limitations suffered by conventional passive damping methods. The higher strain recovery during SME makes SMP ideal for developments of packers and sand management in downhole. The increasing number of SMM related research papers and patents from oil and gas industry indicate the growing research interest of the industry to implement SMM in offshore applications. This paper reviews the recent developments and applications of SMM in the offshore oil and gas industry.

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.

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.

Theoretical description of magnetocaloric effect in the shape memory alloy exhibiting metamagnetic behavior

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

L'vov, Victor A.; Taras Shevchenko National University, Kyiv 01601; Kosogor, Anna, E-mail: annakosogor@gmail.com

2016-01-07

A simple thermodynamic theory is proposed for the quantitative description of giant magnetocaloric effect observed in metamagnetic shape memory alloys. Both the conventional magnetocaloric effect at the Curie temperature and the inverse magnetocaloric effect at the transition from the ferromagnetic austenite to a weakly magnetic martensite are considered. These effects are evaluated from the Landau-type free energy expression involving exchange interactions in a system of a two magnetic sublattices. The findings of the thermodynamic theory agree with first-principles calculations and experimental results from Ni-Mn-In-Co and Ni-Mn-Sn alloys, respectively.

Response properties in the adsorption-desorption model on a triangular lattice

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Šćepanović, J. R.; Stojiljković, D.; Jakšić, Z. M.; Budinski-Petković, Lj.; Vrhovac, S. B.

2016-06-01

The out-of-equilibrium dynamical processes during the reversible random sequential adsorption (RSA) of objects of various shapes on a two-dimensional triangular lattice are studied numerically by means of Monte Carlo simulations. We focused on the influence of the order of symmetry axis of the shape on the response of the reversible RSA model to sudden perturbations of the desorption probability Pd. We provide a detailed discussion of the significance of collective events for governing the time coverage behavior of shapes with different rotational symmetries. We calculate the two-time density-density correlation function C(t ,tw) for various waiting times tw and show that longer memory of the initial state persists for the more symmetrical shapes. Our model displays nonequilibrium dynamical effects such as aging. We find that the correlation function C(t ,tw) for all objects scales as a function of single variable ln(tw) / ln(t) . We also study the short-term memory effects in two-component mixtures of extended objects and give a detailed analysis of the contribution to the densification kinetics coming from each mixture component. We observe the weakening of correlation features for the deposition processes in multicomponent systems.

Frontiers of Theoretical Research on Shape Memory Alloys: A General Overview

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chowdhury, Piyas

2018-03-01

In this concise review, general aspects of modeling shape memory alloys (SMAs) are recounted. Different approaches are discussed under four general categories, namely, (a) macro-phenomenological, (b) micromechanical, (c) molecular dynamics, and (d) first principles models. Macro-phenomenological theories, stemming from empirical formulations depicting continuum elastic, plastic, and phase transformation, are primarily of engineering interest, whereby the performance of SMA-made components is investigated. Micromechanical endeavors are generally geared towards understanding microstructural phenomena within continuum mechanics such as the accommodation of straining due to phase change as well as role of precipitates. By contrast, molecular dynamics, being a more recently emerging computational technique, concerns attributes of discrete lattice structures, and thus captures SMA deformation mechanism by means of empirically reconstructing interatomic bonding forces. Finally, ab initio theories utilize quantum mechanical framework to peek into atomistic foundation of deformation, and can pave the way for studying the role of solid-sate effects. With specific examples, this paper provides concise descriptions of each category along with their relative merits and emphases.

Omni Directional Multimaterial Soft Cylindrical Actuator and Its Application as a Steerable Catheter.

PubMed

Gul, Jahan Zeb; Yang, Young Jin; Su, Kim Young; Choi, Kyung Hyun

2017-09-01

Soft actuators with complex range of motion lead to strong interest in applying devices like biomedical catheters and steerable soft pipe inspectors. To facilitate the use of soft actuators in devices where controlled, complex, precise, and fast motion is required, a structurally controlled Omni directional soft cylindrical actuator is fabricated in a modular way using multilayer composite of polylactic acid based conductive Graphene, shape memory polymer, shape memory alloy, and polyurethane. Multiple fabrication techniques are discussed step by step that mainly include fused deposition modeling based 3D printing, dip coating, and UV curing. A mathematical control model is used to generate patterned electrical signals for the Omni directional deformations. Characterizations like structural control, bending, recovery, path, and thermal effect are carried out with and without load (10 g) to verify the new cylindrical design concept. Finally, the application of Omni directional actuator as a steerable catheter is explored by fabricating a scaled version of carotid artery through 3D printing using a semitransparent material.

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.

A Comparison of Computation Span and Reading Span Working Memory Measures' Relations With Problem-Solving Criteria.

PubMed

Perlow, Richard; Jattuso, Mia

2018-06-01

Researchers have operationalized working memory in different ways and although working memory-performance relationships are well documented, there has been relatively less attention devoted to determining whether seemingly similar measures yield comparable relations with performance outcomes. Our objective is to assess whether two working memory measures deploying the same processes but different item content yield different relations with two problem-solving criteria. Participants completed a computation-based working memory measure and a reading-based measure prior to performing a computerized simulation. Results reveal differential relations with one of the two criteria and support the notion that the two working memory measures tap working memory capacity and other cognitive abilities. One implication for theory development is that researchers should consider incorporating other cognitive abilities in their working memory models and that the selection of those abilities should correspond to the criterion of interest. One practical implication is that researchers and practitioners shouldn't automatically assume that different phonological loop-based working memory scales are interchangeable.

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.

Thermal energy conversion by coupled shape memory and piezoelectric effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zakharov, Dmitry; Lebedev, Gor; Cugat, Orphee; Delamare, Jerome; Viala, Bernard; Lafont, Thomas; Gimeno, Leticia; Shelyakov, Alexander

2012-09-01

This work gives experimental evidence of a promising method of thermal-to-electric energy conversion by coupling shape memory effect (SME) and direct piezoelectric effect (DPE) for harvesting quasi-static ambient temperature variations. Two original prototypes of thermal energy harvesters have been fabricated and tested experimentally. The first is a hybrid laminated composite consisting of TiNiCu shape memory alloy (SMA) and macro fiber composite piezoelectric. This composite comprises 0.1 cm3 of active materials and harvests 75 µJ of energy for each temperature variation of 60 °C. The second prototype is a SME/DPE ‘machine’ which uses the thermally induced linear strains of the SMA to bend a bulk PZT ceramic plate through a specially designed mechanical structure. The SME/DPE ‘machine’ with 0.2 cm3 of active material harvests 90 µJ over a temperature increase of 35 °C (60 µJ when cooling). In contrast to pyroelectric materials, such harvesters are also compatible with both small and slow temperature variations.

Mechanical design of a shape memory alloy actuated prosthetic hand.

PubMed

De Laurentis, Kathryn J; Mavroidis, Constantinos

2002-01-01

This paper presents the mechanical design for a new five fingered, twenty degree-of-freedom dexterous hand patterned after human anatomy and actuated by Shape Memory Alloy artificial muscles. Two experimental prototypes of a finger, one fabricated by traditional means and another fabricated by rapid prototyping techniques, are described and used to evaluate the design. An important aspect of the Rapid Prototype technique used here is that this multi-articulated hand will be fabricated in one step, without requiring assembly, while maintaining its desired mobility. The use of Shape Memory Alloy actuators combined with the rapid fabrication of the non-assembly type hand, reduce considerably its weight and fabrication time. Therefore, the focus of this paper is the mechanical design of a dexterous hand that combines Rapid Prototype techniques and smart actuators. The type of robotic hand described in this paper can be utilized for applications requiring low weight, compactness, and dexterity such as prosthetic devices, space and planetary exploration.

Evaluation of a Shape Memory Alloy Reinforced Annuloplasty Band for Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Repair

PubMed Central

Purser, Molly F.; Richards, Andrew L.; Cook, Richard C.; Osborne, Jason A.; Cormier, Denis R.; Buckner, Gregory D.

2013-01-01

Purpose An in vitro study using explanted porcine hearts was conducted to evaluate a novel annuloplasty band, reinforced with a two-phase, shape memory alloy, designed specifically for minimally invasive mitral valve repair. Description In its rigid (austenitic) phase, this band provides the same mechanical properties as the commercial semi-rigid bands. In its compliant (martensitic) phase, this band is flexible enough to be introduced through an 8-mm trocar and is easily manipulated within the heart. Evaluation In its rigid phase, the prototype band displayed similar mechanical properties to commercially available semi-rigid rings. Dynamic flow testing demonstrated no statistical differences in the reduction of mitral valve regurgitation. In its flexible phase, the band was easily deployed through an 8-mm trocar, robotically manipulated and sutured into place. Conclusions Experimental results suggest that the shape memory alloy reinforced band could be a viable alternative to flexible and semi-rigid bands in minimally invasive mitral valve repair. PMID:19766827

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

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.

Design of a shape-memory alloy actuated macro-scale morphing aircraft mechanism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manzo, Justin; Garcia, Ephrahim; Wickenheiser, Adam; Horner, Garnett C.

2005-05-01

As more alternative, lightweight actuators have become available, the conventional fixed-wing configuration seen on modern aircraft is under investigation for efficiency on a broad scale. If an aircraft could be designed with multiple functional equilibria of drastically varying aerodynamic parameters, one craft capable of 'morphing' its shape could be used to replace two or three designed with particular intentions. One proposed shape for large-scale (geometry change on the same order of magnitude as wingspan) morphing is the Hyper-Elliptical Cambered Span (HECS) wing, designed at NASA Langley to be implemented on an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). Proposed mechanisms to accomplish the spanwise curvature (in the y-z plane of the craft) that allow near-continuous bending of the wing are narrowed to a tendon-based DC motor actuated system, and a shape memory alloy-based (SMA) mechanism. At Cornell, simulations and wind tunnel experiments assess the validity of the HECS wing as a potential shape for a blended-wing body craft with the potential to effectively serve the needs of two conventional UAVs, and analyze the energetics of actuation associated with a morphing maneuver accomplished with both a DC motor and SMA wire.

Rotator side chains trigger cooperative transition for shape and function memory effect in organic semiconductors.

PubMed

Chung, Hyunjoong; Dudenko, Dmytro; Zhang, Fengjiao; D'Avino, Gabriele; Ruzié, Christian; Richard, Audrey; Schweicher, Guillaume; Cornil, Jérôme; Beljonne, David; Geerts, Yves; Diao, Ying

2018-01-18

Martensitic transition is a solid-state phase transition involving cooperative movement of atoms, mostly studied in metallurgy. The main characteristics are low transition barrier, ultrafast kinetics, and structural reversibility. They are rarely observed in molecular crystals, and hence the origin and mechanism are largely unexplored. Here we report the discovery of martensitic transition in single crystals of two different organic semiconductors. In situ microscopy, single-crystal X-ray diffraction, Raman and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and molecular simulations combined indicate that the rotating bulky side chains trigger cooperative transition. Cooperativity enables shape memory effect in single crystals and function memory effect in thin film transistors. We establish a molecular design rule to trigger martensitic transition in organic semiconductors, showing promise for designing next-generation smart multifunctional materials.

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.

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.

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).

Engineering Design Tools for Shape Memory Alloy Actuators: CASMART Collaborative Best Practices and Case Studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wheeler, Robert W.; Benafan, Othmane; Gao, Xiujie; Calkins, Frederick T; Ghanbari, Zahra; Hommer, Garrison; Lagoudas, Dimitris; Petersen, Andrew; Pless, Jennifer M.; Stebner, Aaron P.;

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.

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.

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

Frequency and bandwidth conversion of single photons in a room-temperature diamond quantum memory

PubMed Central

Fisher, Kent A. G.; England, Duncan G.; MacLean, Jean-Philippe W.; Bustard, Philip J.; Resch, Kevin J.; Sussman, Benjamin J.

2016-01-01

The spectral manipulation of photons is essential for linking components in a quantum network. Large frequency shifts are needed for conversion between optical and telecommunication frequencies, while smaller shifts are useful for frequency-multiplexing quantum systems, in the same way that wavelength division multiplexing is used in classical communications. Here we demonstrate frequency and bandwidth conversion of single photons in a room-temperature diamond quantum memory. Heralded 723.5 nm photons, with 4.1 nm bandwidth, are stored as optical phonons in the diamond via a Raman transition. Upon retrieval from the diamond memory, the spectral shape of the photons is determined by a tunable read pulse through the reverse Raman transition. We report central frequency tunability over 4.2 times the input bandwidth, and bandwidth modulation between 0.5 and 1.9 times the input bandwidth. Our results demonstrate the potential for diamond, and Raman memories in general, as an integrated platform for photon storage and spectral conversion. PMID:27045988

Frequency and bandwidth conversion of single photons in a room-temperature diamond quantum memory.

PubMed

Fisher, Kent A G; England, Duncan G; MacLean, Jean-Philippe W; Bustard, Philip J; Resch, Kevin J; Sussman, Benjamin J

2016-04-05

The spectral manipulation of photons is essential for linking components in a quantum network. Large frequency shifts are needed for conversion between optical and telecommunication frequencies, while smaller shifts are useful for frequency-multiplexing quantum systems, in the same way that wavelength division multiplexing is used in classical communications. Here we demonstrate frequency and bandwidth conversion of single photons in a room-temperature diamond quantum memory. Heralded 723.5 nm photons, with 4.1 nm bandwidth, are stored as optical phonons in the diamond via a Raman transition. Upon retrieval from the diamond memory, the spectral shape of the photons is determined by a tunable read pulse through the reverse Raman transition. We report central frequency tunability over 4.2 times the input bandwidth, and bandwidth modulation between 0.5 and 1.9 times the input bandwidth. Our results demonstrate the potential for diamond, and Raman memories in general, as an integrated platform for photon storage and spectral conversion.

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.

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.

Are all data created equal?--Exploring some boundary conditions for a lazy intuitive statistician.

PubMed

Lindskog, Marcus; Winman, Anders

2014-01-01

The study investigated potential effects of the presentation order of numeric information on retrospective subjective judgments of descriptive statistics of this information. The studies were theoretically motivated by the assumption in the naïve sampling model of independence between temporal encoding order of data in long-term memory and retrieval probability (i.e. as implied by a "random sampling" from memory metaphor). In Experiment 1, participants experienced Arabic numbers that varied in distribution shape/variability between the first and the second half of the information sequence. Results showed no effects of order on judgments of mean, variability or distribution shape. To strengthen the interpretation of these results, Experiment 2 used a repeated judgment procedure, with an initial judgment occurring prior to the change in distribution shape of the information half-way through data presentation. The results of Experiment 2 were in line with those from Experiment 1, and in addition showed that the act of making explicit judgments did not impair accuracy of later judgments, as would be suggested by an anchoring and insufficient adjustment strategy. Overall, the results indicated that participants were very responsive to the properties of the data while at the same time being more or less immune to order effects. The results were interpreted as being in line with the naïve sampling models in which values are stored as exemplars and sampled randomly from long-term memory.

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.

Improved Functional Properties and Efficiencies of Nitinol Wires Under High-Performance Shape Memory Effect (HP-SME)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Casati, R.; Saghafi, F.; Biffi, C. A.; Vedani, M.; Tuissi, A.

2017-10-01

Martensitic Ti-rich NiTi intermetallics are broadly used in various cyclic applications as actuators, which exploit the shape memory effect (SME). Recently, a new approach for exploiting austenitic Ni-rich NiTi shape memory alloys as actuators was proposed and named high-performance shape memory effect (HP-SME). HP-SME is based on thermal recovery of de-twinned martensite produced by mechanical loading of the parent phase. The aim of the manuscript consists in evaluating and comparing the fatigue and actuation properties of austenitic HP-SME wires and conventional martensitic SME wires. The effect of the thermomechanical cycling on the actuation response and the changes in the electrical resistivity of both shape memory materials were studied by performing the actuation tests at different stages of the fatigue life. Finally, the changes in the transition temperatures before and after cycling were also investigated by differential calorimetric tests.

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.

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.

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.

Endoscopic optical coherence tomography with a focus-adjustable probe.

PubMed

Liao, Wenchao; Chen, Tianyuan; Wang, Chengming; Zhang, Wenxin; Peng, Zhangkai; Zhang, Xiao; Ai, Shengnan; Fu, Deyong; Zhou, Tieying; Xue, Ping

2017-10-15

We present a focus-adjustable endoscopic probe for optical coherence tomography (OCT), which is able to acquire images with different focal planes and overcome depth-of-focus limitations by image fusing. The use of a two-way shape-memory-alloy spring enables the probe to adjust working distance over 1.5 mm, providing a large scanning range with high resolution and no sensitivity loss. Equipped with a homemade hollow-core ultrasonic motor, the probe is capable of performing an unobstructed 360 deg field-of-view distal scanning. Both the axial resolution and the best lateral resolution are ∼4  μm, with a sensitivity of 100.3 dB. Spectral-domain OCT imaging of phantom and biological tissues with the probe is also demonstrated.

What are the differences between long-term, short-term, and working memory?

PubMed

Cowan, Nelson

2008-01-01

In the recent literature there has been considerable confusion about the three types of memory: long-term, short-term, and working memory. This chapter strives to reduce that confusion and makes up-to-date assessments of these types of memory. Long- and short-term memory could differ in two fundamental ways, with only short-term memory demonstrating (1) temporal decay and (2) chunk capacity limits. Both properties of short-term memory are still controversial but the current literature is rather encouraging regarding the existence of both decay and capacity limits. Working memory has been conceived and defined in three different, slightly discrepant ways: as short-term memory applied to cognitive tasks, as a multi-component system that holds and manipulates information in short-term memory, and as the use of attention to manage short-term memory. Regardless of the definition, there are some measures of memory in the short term that seem routine and do not correlate well with cognitive aptitudes and other measures (those usually identified with the term "working memory") that seem more attention demanding and do correlate well with these aptitudes. The evidence is evaluated and placed within a theoretical framework depicted in Fig. 1.

Effects of working memory contents and perceptual load on distractor processing: When a response-related distractor is held in working memory.

PubMed

Koshino, Hideya

2017-01-01

Working memory and attention are closely related. Recent research has shown that working memory can be viewed as internally directed attention. Working memory can affect attention in at least two ways. One is the effect of working memory load on attention, and the other is the effect of working memory contents on attention. In the present study, an interaction between working memory contents and perceptual load in distractor processing was investigated. Participants performed a perceptual load task in a standard form in one condition (Single task). In the other condition, a response-related distractor was maintained in working memory, rather than presented in the same stimulus display as a target (Dual task). For the Dual task condition, a significant compatibility effect was found under high perceptual load; however, there was no compatibility effect under low perceptual load. These results suggest that the way the contents of working memory affect visual search depends on perceptual load. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A water-responsive shape memory ionomer with permanent shape reconfiguration ability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bai, Yongkang; Zhang, Jiwen; Tian, Ran; Chen, Xin

2018-04-01

In this work, a water-responsive shape memory ionomer with high toughness was fabricated by cross-linking hyaluronic acid sodium (HAS) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) through coordination interactions. The strong Fe3+-carboxyl (from HAS) coordination interactions served as main physical cross-linking points for the performance of water-responsive shape memory, which associated with the flexibility of PVA chain producing excellent mechanical properties of this ionomer. The optimized ionomer was not only able to recover to its original shape within just 22 s by exposing to water, but exhibited high tensile strength up to 35.4 MPa and 4 times higher tractility than the ionomer without PVA. Moreover, the ionomers can be repeatedly programed to various new permanent shapes on demand due to the reversible physical interactions, which still performed complete and fast geometric recovery under stimuli even after 4 cycles of reprograming with 3 different shapes. The excellent shape memory and strong mechanical behaviors make our ionomers significant and promising smart materials for variety of applications.

Influence of Structure and Microstructure on Deformation Localization and Crack Growth in NiTi Shape Memory Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paul, Partha P.; Fortman, Margaret; Paranjape, Harshad M.; Anderson, Peter M.; Stebner, Aaron P.; Brinson, L. Catherine

2018-04-01

Porous NiTi shape memory alloys have applications in the biomedical and aerospace fields. Recent developments in metal additive manufacturing have made fabrication of near-net-shape porous products with complicated geometries feasible. There have also been developments in tailoring site-specific microstructures in metals using additive manufacturing. Inspired by these developments, we explore two related mechanistic phenomena in a simplified representation of porous shape memory alloys. First, we computationally elucidate the connection between pore geometry, stress concentration around pores, grain orientation, and strain-band formation during tensile loading of NiTi. Using this, we present a method to engineer local crystal orientations to mitigate the stress concentrations around the pores. Second, we experimentally document the growth of cracks around pores in a cyclically loaded superelastic NiTi specimen. In the areas of stress concentration around holes, cracks are seen to grow in large grains with [1 1 0] oriented along the tensile axis. This combined work shows the potential of local microstructural engineering in reducing stress concentration and increasing resistance to propagation of cracks in porous SMAs, potentially increasing the fatigue life of porous SMA components.

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.

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.

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

Preparation and evaluation of ageing effect of Cu-Al-Be-Mn shape memory alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shivasiddaramaiah, A. G.; Mallik, U. S.; Mahato, Ranjit; Shashishekar, C.

2018-04-01

10-14 wt. % of aluminum, 0.3-0.6 wt. % of beryllium and 0.1-0.4 wt. % of manganese and remaining copper melted in the induction furnace through ingot metallurgy. The prepared SMAs are subjected to homogenization. It was observed that the samples exhibits β-phase at high temperature and shape memory effect after going through step quenching to a low temperature. Scanning Electron Microscope, DSC, bending test were performed on the samples to determine the microstructure, transformation temperatures and shape memory effect respectively. The alloy exhibit good shape memory effect, up to around 96% strain recovery by shape memory effect. The ageing is performed on the specimen prepared according to ASTM standard for testing micro-hardness and tensile test. Precipitation hardening method was employed to age the samples and they were aged at different temperature and at different times followed by quenching. Various forms of precipitates were formed. It was found that the formation rate and transformation temperature increased with ageing time, while the amount of precipitate had an inverse impact on strain recovery by shape memory effect. The result expected is to increase in mechanical properties of the material such as hardness.

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.

Human Memory: The Basics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martinez, Michael E.

2010-01-01

The human mind has two types of memory: short-term and long-term. In all types of learning, it is best to use that structure rather than to fight against it. One way to do that is to ensure that learners can fit new information into patterns that can be stored in and more easily retrieved from long-term memory.

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.

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.

Biocorrosion investigation of two shape memory nickel based alloys: Ni-Mn-Ga and thin film NiTi.

PubMed

Stepan, L L; Levi, D S; Gans, E; Mohanchandra, K P; Ujihara, M; Carman, G P

2007-09-01

Thin film nitinol and single crystal Ni-Mn-Ga represent two new shape memory materials with potential to be used as percutaneously placed implant devices. However, the biocompatibility of these materials has not been adequately assessed. Immersion tests were conducted on both thin film nitinol and single crystal Ni-Mn-Ga in Hank's balanced salt solution at 37 degrees C and pH 7.4. After 12 h, large pits were found on the Ni-Mn-Ga samples while thin film nitinol displayed no signs of corrosion. Further electrochemical tests on thin film nitinol samples revealed breakdown potentials superior to a mechanically polished nitinol disc. These results suggest that passivation or electropolishing of thin film nitinol maybe unnecessary to promote corrosion resistance.

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.

What are the differences between long-term, short-term, and working memory?

PubMed Central

Cowan, Nelson

2008-01-01

In the recent literature there has been considerable confusion about the three types of memory: long-term, short-term, and working memory. This chapter strives to reduce that confusion and makes up-to-date assessments of these types of memory. Long- and short-term memory could differ in two fundamental ways, with only short-term memory demonstrating (1) temporal decay and (2) chunk capacity limits. Both properties of short-term memory are still controversial but the current literature is rather encouraging regarding the existence of both decay and capacity limits. Working memory has been conceived and defined in three different, slightly discrepant ways: as short-term memory applied to cognitive tasks, as a multi-component system that holds and manipulates information in short-term memory, and as the use of attention to manage short-term memory. Regardless of the definition, there are some measures of memory in the short term that seem routine and do not correlate well with cognitive aptitudes and other measures (those usually identified with the term “working memory”) that seem more attention demanding and do correlate well with these aptitudes. The evidence is evaluated and placed within a theoretical framework depicted in Fig. 1. PMID:18394484

Effect of Co Addition on the Microstructure, Martensitic Transformation and Shape Memory Behavior of Fe-Mn-Si Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maji, Bikas C.; Krishnan, Madangopal; Sujata, M.; Gouthama; Ray, Ranjit K.

2013-01-01

The effect of Co addition has been studied in Fe-30Mn-6Si- xCo ( x = 0 to 9 wt pct) shape memory alloys in terms of their microstructure, martensitic transformation and shape recovery. Microstructural investigations reveal that in Fe-Mn-Si-Co alloys, the microstructure remains single-phase austenite (γ) up to 5 pct Co and beyond that becomes two-phase comprising γ and off-stoichiometric (Fe,Co)5Mn3Si2 intermetallic π-phases. The forward γ-ɛ martensite transformation start temperature ( M S) decreases with the addition of Co up to 5 pct, and alloys containing more than 5 pct Co, show slightly higher M S possibly on account of two-phase microstructure. Unlike M S, the ɛ-γ reverse transformation start temperature ( A S) has been found to remain almost unaltered by Co addition. In general, addition of Co to Fe-Mn-Si alloys deteriorates shape recovery due to decreasing resistance to plastic yielding concomitant with the formation of stress induced ɛ martensite. However, there is an improvement in shape recovery beyond 5 pct Co addition, possibly due to the strengthening effect arising from the presence of (Fe,Co)5Mn3Si2 precipitates within the two-phase microstructure and due to higher amount of stress induced ɛ martensite.

Finite element analysis and cadaveric cinematic analysis of fixation options for anteriorly implanted trabecular metal interbody cages.

PubMed

Berjano, Pedro; Blanco, Juan Francisco; Rendon, Diego; Villafañe, Jorge Hugo; Pescador, David; Atienza, Carlos Manuel

2015-11-01

To assess, with finite element analysis and an in vitro biomechanical study in cadaver, whether the implementation of an anterior interbody cage made of hedrocel with nitinol shape memory staples in compression increases the stiffness of the stand-alone interbody cage and to compare these constructs' stiffness to other constructs common in clinical practice. A biomechanical study with a finite element analysis and cadaveric testing assessed the stiffness of different fixation modes for the L4-L5 functional spinal unit: intact spine, destabilized spine with discectomy, posterior pedicle-screw fixation, anterior stand-alone interbody cage, anterior interbody cage with bilateral pedicle screws and anterior interbody cage with two shape memory staples in compression. These modalities of vertebral fixation were compared in four loading modes (flexion, extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation). The L4-L5 spinal unit with an anterior interbody cage and two staples was stiffer than the stand-alone cage. The construct stiffness was similar to that of a model of posterior pedicular stabilization. The stiffness was lower than that of the anterior cage plus bilateral pedicle-screw fixation. The use of an anterior interbody implant with shape memory staples in compression may be an alternative to isolated posterior fixation and to anterior isolated implants, with increased stiffness.

Modeling the Behaviour of an Advanced Material Based Smart Landing Gear System for Aerospace Vehicles

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

Varughese, Byji; Dayananda, G. N.; Rao, M. Subba

2008-07-29

The last two decades have seen a substantial rise in the use of advanced materials such as polymer composites for aerospace structural applications. In more recent years there has been a concerted effort to integrate materials, which mimic biological functions (referred to as smart materials) with polymeric composites. Prominent among smart materials are shape memory alloys, which possess both actuating and sensory functions that can be realized simultaneously. The proper characterization and modeling of advanced and smart materials holds the key to the design and development of efficient smart devices/systems. This paper focuses on the material characterization; modeling and validationmore » of the model in relation to the development of a Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) based smart landing gear (with high energy dissipation features) for a semi rigid radio controlled airship (RC-blimp). The Super Elastic (SE) SMA element is configured in such a way that it is forced into a tensile mode of high elastic deformation. The smart landing gear comprises of a landing beam, an arch and a super elastic Nickel-Titanium (Ni-Ti) SMA element. The landing gear is primarily made of polymer carbon composites, which possess high specific stiffness and high specific strength compared to conventional materials, and are therefore ideally suited for the design and development of an efficient skid landing gear system with good energy dissipation characteristics. The development of the smart landing gear in relation to a conventional metal landing gear design is also dealt with.« less

Electric field induced reversible 180° magnetization switching through tuning of interfacial exchange bias along magnetic easy-axis in multiferroic laminates

PubMed Central

Xue, Xu; Zhou, Ziyao; Peng, Bin; Zhu, Mingmin; Zhang, Yijun; Ren, Wei; Ren, Tao; Yang, Xi; Nan, Tianxiang; Sun, Nian X.; Liu, Ming

2015-01-01

E-field control of interfacial exchange coupling and deterministic switching of magnetization have been demonstrated in two sets of ferromagnetic(FM)/antiferromagnetic(AFM)/ferroelectric(FE) multiferroic heterostructures, including NiFe/NiCoO/glass/PZN-PT (011) and NiFe/FeMn/glass/PZN-PT (011). We designed this experiment to achieve exchange bias tuning along the magnetic easy axis, which is critical for realizing reversible 180° magnetization deterministic switching at zero or small magnetic bias. Strong exchange coupling were established across AFM-FM interfaces, which plays an important role in voltage control of magnetization switching. Through the competition between the E-field induced uniaxial anisotropy in ferromagnetic layer and unidirectional anisotropy in antiferromagnetic layer, the exchange bias was significantly shifted by up to |∆Hex|/Hex = 8% in NiFe/FeMn/glass/PZN-PT (011) and 13% in NiFe/NiCoO/glass/PZN-PT (011). In addition, the square shape of the hysteresis loop, as well as a strong shape tunability of |∆Hex|/Hc = 67.5 ~ 125% in NiFe/FeMn/glass/PZN-PT and 30 ~ 38% in NiFe/NiCoO/glass/PZN-PT were achieved, which lead to a near 180° magnetization switching. Electrical tuning of interfacial exchange coupling in FM/AFM/FE systems paves a new way for realizing magnetoelectric random access memories and other memory technologies. PMID:26576658

Electric field induced reversible 180° magnetization switching through tuning of interfacial exchange bias along magnetic easy-axis in multiferroic laminates

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

Xue, Xu; Zhou, Ziyao; Peng, Bin

2015-11-18

E-field control of interfacial exchange coupling and deterministic switching of magnetization have been demonstrated in two sets of ferromagnetic(FM)/antiferromagnetic(AFM)/ferroelectric(FE) multiferroic heterostructures, including NiFe/NiCoO/glass/PZN-PT (011) and NiFe/FeMn/glass/PZN-PT (011). We designed this experiment to achieve exchange bias tuning along the magnetic easy axis, which is critical for realizing reversible 180° magnetization deterministic switching at zero or small magnetic bias. Strong exchange coupling were established across AFM-FM interfaces, which plays an important role in voltage control of magnetization switching. Through the competition between the E-field induced uniaxial anisotropy in ferromagnetic layer and unidirectional anisotropy in antiferromagnetic layer, the exchange bias was significantly shiftedmore » by up to |ΔH ex|/H ex=8% in NiFe/FeMn/glass/PZN-PT (011) and 13% in NiFe/NiCoO/glass/PZN-PT (011). In addition, the square shape of the hysteresis loop, as well as a strong shape tunability of |ΔH ex|/H c=67.5~125% in NiFe/FeMn/glass/PZN-PT and 30~38% in NiFe/NiCoO/glass/PZN-PT were achieved, which lead to a near 180° magnetization switching. Lastly, electrical tuning of interfacial exchange coupling in FM/AFM/FE systems paves a new way for realizing magnetoelectric random access memories and other memory technologies.« less

Electric field induced reversible 180° magnetization switching through tuning of interfacial exchange bias along magnetic easy-axis in multiferroic laminates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xue, Xu; Zhou, Ziyao; Peng, Bin; Zhu, Mingmin; Zhang, Yijun; Ren, Wei; Ren, Tao; Yang, Xi; Nan, Tianxiang; Sun, Nian X.; Liu, Ming

2015-11-01

E-field control of interfacial exchange coupling and deterministic switching of magnetization have been demonstrated in two sets of ferromagnetic(FM)/antiferromagnetic(AFM)/ferroelectric(FE) multiferroic heterostructures, including NiFe/NiCoO/glass/PZN-PT (011) and NiFe/FeMn/glass/PZN-PT (011). We designed this experiment to achieve exchange bias tuning along the magnetic easy axis, which is critical for realizing reversible 180° magnetization deterministic switching at zero or small magnetic bias. Strong exchange coupling were established across AFM-FM interfaces, which plays an important role in voltage control of magnetization switching. Through the competition between the E-field induced uniaxial anisotropy in ferromagnetic layer and unidirectional anisotropy in antiferromagnetic layer, the exchange bias was significantly shifted by up to |ΔHex|/Hex = 8% in NiFe/FeMn/glass/PZN-PT (011) and 13% in NiFe/NiCoO/glass/PZN-PT (011). In addition, the square shape of the hysteresis loop, as well as a strong shape tunability of |ΔHex|/Hc = 67.5 ~ 125% in NiFe/FeMn/glass/PZN-PT and 30 ~ 38% in NiFe/NiCoO/glass/PZN-PT were achieved, which lead to a near 180° magnetization switching. Electrical tuning of interfacial exchange coupling in FM/AFM/FE systems paves a new way for realizing magnetoelectric random access memories and other memory technologies.

Electric field induced reversible 180° magnetization switching through tuning of interfacial exchange bias along magnetic easy-axis in multiferroic laminates.

PubMed

Xue, Xu; Zhou, Ziyao; Peng, Bin; Zhu, Mingmin; Zhang, Yijun; Ren, Wei; Ren, Tao; Yang, Xi; Nan, Tianxiang; Sun, Nian X; Liu, Ming

2015-11-18

E-field control of interfacial exchange coupling and deterministic switching of magnetization have been demonstrated in two sets of ferromagnetic(FM)/antiferromagnetic(AFM)/ferroelectric(FE) multiferroic heterostructures, including NiFe/NiCoO/glass/PZN-PT (011) and NiFe/FeMn/glass/PZN-PT (011). We designed this experiment to achieve exchange bias tuning along the magnetic easy axis, which is critical for realizing reversible 180° magnetization deterministic switching at zero or small magnetic bias. Strong exchange coupling were established across AFM-FM interfaces, which plays an important role in voltage control of magnetization switching. Through the competition between the E-field induced uniaxial anisotropy in ferromagnetic layer and unidirectional anisotropy in antiferromagnetic layer, the exchange bias was significantly shifted by up to |∆Hex|/Hex = 8% in NiFe/FeMn/glass/PZN-PT (011) and 13% in NiFe/NiCoO/glass/PZN-PT (011). In addition, the square shape of the hysteresis loop, as well as a strong shape tunability of |∆Hex|/Hc = 67.5 ~ 125% in NiFe/FeMn/glass/PZN-PT and 30 ~ 38% in NiFe/NiCoO/glass/PZN-PT were achieved, which lead to a near 180° magnetization switching. Electrical tuning of interfacial exchange coupling in FM/AFM/FE systems paves a new way for realizing magnetoelectric random access memories and other memory technologies.

Recoding between Two Types of STM Representation Revealed by the Dynamics of Memory Search

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leszczynski, Marcin; Myers, Nicholas E.; Akyurek, Elkan G.; Schubo, Anna

2012-01-01

Visual STM (VSTM) is thought to be related to visual attention in several ways. Attention controls access to VSTM during memory encoding and plays a role in the maintenance of stored information by strengthening memorized content. We investigated the involvement of visual attention in recall from VSTM. In two experiments, we measured…

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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,…

Object representations in visual memory: evidence from visual illusions.

PubMed

Ben-Shalom, Asaf; Ganel, Tzvi

2012-07-26

Human visual memory is considered to contain different levels of object representations. Representations in visual working memory (VWM) are thought to contain relatively elaborated information about object structure. Conversely, representations in iconic memory are thought to be more perceptual in nature. In four experiments, we tested the effects of two different categories of visual illusions on representations in VWM and in iconic memory. Unlike VWM that was affected by both types of illusions, iconic memory was immune to the effects of within-object contextual illusions and was affected only by illusions driven by between-objects contextual properties. These results show that iconic and visual working memory contain dissociable representations of object shape. These findings suggest that the global properties of the visual scene are processed prior to the processing of specific elements.

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.

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.

Task probability and report of feature information: what you know about what you 'see' depends on what you expect to need.

PubMed

Pilling, Michael; Gellatly, Angus

2013-07-01

We investigated the influence of dimensional set on report of object feature information using an immediate memory probe task. Participants viewed displays containing up to 36 coloured geometric shapes which were presented for several hundred milliseconds before one item was abruptly occluded by a probe. A cue presented simultaneously with the probe instructed participants to report either about the colour or shape of the probe item. A dimensional set towards the colour or shape of the presented items was induced by manipulating task probability - the relative probability with which the two feature dimensions required report. This was done across two participant groups: One group was given trials where there was a higher report probability of colour, the other a higher report probability of shape. Two experiments showed that features were reported most accurately when they were of high task probability, though in both cases the effect was largely driven by the colour dimension. Importantly the task probability effect did not interact with display set size. This is interpreted as tentative evidence that this manipulation influences feature processing in a global manner and at a stage prior to visual short term memory. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Young and Older Adults’ Beliefs about Effective Ways to Mitigate Age-Related Memory Decline

PubMed Central

Horhota, Michelle; Lineweaver, Tara; Ositelu, Monique; Summers, Kristi; Hertzog, Christopher

2013-01-01

This study investigated whether young and older adults vary in their beliefs about the impact of various mitigating factors on age-related memory decline. Eighty young (ages 18–23) and eighty older (ages 60–82) participants reported their beliefs about their own memory abilities and the strategies that they use in their everyday lives to attempt to control their memory. Participants also reported their beliefs about memory change with age for hypothetical target individuals who were described as using (or not using) various means to mitigate memory decline. There were no age differences in personal beliefs about control over current or future memory ability. However, the two age groups differed in the types of strategies they used in their everyday life to control their memory. Young adults were more likely to use internal memory strategies, whereas older adults were more likely to focus on cognitive exercise and maintaining physical health as ways to optimize their memory ability. There were no age differences in rated memory change across the life span in hypothetical individuals. Both young and older adults perceived strategies related to improving physical and cognitive health as effective means of mitigating memory loss with age, whereas internal memory strategies were perceived as less effective means for controlling age-related memory decline. PMID:22082012

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

little sister: An Afro-Temporal Solo-Play.

PubMed

De Berry, Misty

2017-07-03

little sister: An Afro-Temporal Solo-Play is at once a memory-scape and a mytho-biography set to poetry, movement, and mixed media. A performance poem spanning from the Antebellum South to present-moment Chicago, it tells the story of a nomadic spirit named little-she who shape-shifts through the memories and imaginings of her sister, the narrator. Through the characters little-she and the narrator, the solo-performance explores embodied ways to rupture and relieve the impact of macro forms of violence in the micro realm of the everyday. To this end, little sister witnesses and disrupts the legacy of violence in the lives of queer Black women through a trans-temporal navigation of everyday encounters within familial, small groups and intimate partner spaces.

Serial-position effects for items and relations in short-term memory.

PubMed

Jones, Tim; Oberauer, Klaus

2013-04-01

Two experiments used immediate probed recall of words to investigate serial-position effects. Item memory was tested through probing with a semantic category. Relation memory was tested through probing with the word's spatial location of presentation. Input order and output order were deconfounded by presenting and probing items in different orders. Primacy and recency effects over input position were found for both item memory and relation memory. Both item and relation memory declined over output position. The finding of a U-shaped input position function for item memory rules out an explanation purely in terms of positional confusions (e.g., edge effects). Either these serial-position effects arise from variations in the intrinsic memory strength of the items, or they arise from variations in the strength of item-position bindings, together with retrieval by scanning.

Programming temporal shapeshifting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Xiaobo; Zhou, Jing; Vatankhah-Varnosfaderani, Mohammad; Daniel, William F. M.; Li, Qiaoxi; Zhushma, Aleksandr P.; Dobrynin, Andrey V.; Sheiko, Sergei S.

2016-09-01

Shapeshifting enables a wide range of engineering and biomedical applications, but until now transformations have required external triggers. This prerequisite limits viability in closed or inert systems and puts forward the challenge of developing materials with intrinsically encoded shape evolution. Herein we demonstrate programmable shape-memory materials that perform a sequence of encoded actuations under constant environment conditions without using an external trigger. We employ dual network hydrogels: in the first network, covalent crosslinks are introduced for elastic energy storage, and in the second one, temporary hydrogen-bonds regulate the energy release rate. Through strain-induced and time-dependent reorganization of the reversible hydrogen-bonds, this dual network allows for encoding both the rate and pathway of shape transformations on timescales from seconds to hours. This generic mechanism for programming trigger-free shapeshifting opens new ways to design autonomous actuators, drug-release systems and active implants.

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.

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.

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.

Role of memory errors in quantum repeaters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hartmann, L.; Kraus, B.; Briegel, H.-J.; Dür, W.

2007-03-01

We investigate the influence of memory errors in the quantum repeater scheme for long-range quantum communication. We show that the communication distance is limited in standard operation mode due to memory errors resulting from unavoidable waiting times for classical signals. We show how to overcome these limitations by (i) improving local memory and (ii) introducing two operational modes of the quantum repeater. In both operational modes, the repeater is run blindly, i.e., without waiting for classical signals to arrive. In the first scheme, entanglement purification protocols based on one-way classical communication are used allowing to communicate over arbitrary distances. However, the error thresholds for noise in local control operations are very stringent. The second scheme makes use of entanglement purification protocols with two-way classical communication and inherits the favorable error thresholds of the repeater run in standard mode. One can increase the possible communication distance by an order of magnitude with reasonable overhead in physical resources. We outline the architecture of a quantum repeater that can possibly ensure intercontinental quantum communication.

Development of a HTSMA-Actuated Surge Control Rod for High-Temperature Turbomachinery Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Padula, Santo, II; Noebe, Ronald; Bigelow, Glen; Culley, Dennis; Stevens, Mark; Penney, Nicholas; Gaydosh, Darrell; Quackenbush, Todd; Carpenter, Bernie

2007-01-01

In recent years, a demand for compact, lightweight, solid-state actuation systems has emerged, driven in part by the needs of the aeronautics industry. However, most actuation systems used in turbomachinery require not only elevated temperature but high-force capability. As a result, shape memory alloy (SMA) based systems have worked their way to the forefront of a short list of viable options to meet such a technological challenge. Most of the effort centered on shape memory systems to date has involved binary NiTi alloys but the working temperatures required in many aeronautics applications dictate significantly higher transformation temperatures than the binary systems can provide. Hence, a high temperature shape memory alloy (HTSMA) based on NiTiPdPt, having a transformation temperature near 300 C, was developed. Various thermo-mechanical processing schemes were utilized to further improve the dimensional stability of the alloy and it was later extruded/drawn into wire form to be more compatible with envisioned applications. Mechanical testing on the finished wire form showed reasonable work output capability with excellent dimensional stability. Subsequently, the wire form of the alloy was incorporated into a benchtop system, which was shown to provide the necessary stroke requirements of approx.0.125 inches for the targeted surge-control application. Cycle times for the actuator were limited to 4 seconds due to control and cooling constraints but this cycle time was determined to be adequate for the surge control application targeted as the primary requirement was initial actuation of a surge control rod, which could be completed in approximately one second.

Variations in recollection: the effects of complexity on source recognition.

PubMed

Parks, Colleen M; Murray, Linda J; Elfman, Kane; Yonelinas, Andrew P

2011-07-01

Whether recollection is a threshold or signal detection process is highly controversial, and the controversy has centered in part on the shape of receiver operating characteristics (ROCs) and z-transformed ROCs (zROCs). U-shaped zROCs observed in tests thought to rely heavily on recollection, such as source memory tests, have provided evidence in favor of the threshold assumption, but zROCs are not always as U-shaped as threshold theory predicts. Source zROCs have been shown to become more linear when the contribution of familiarity to source discriminations is increased, and this may account for the existing results. However, another way in which source zROCs may become more linear is if the recollection threshold begins to break down and recollection becomes more graded and Gaussian. We tested the "graded recollection" account in the current study. We found that increasing stimulus complexity (i.e., changing from single words to sentences) or increasing source complexity (i.e., changing the sources from audio to videos of speakers) resulted in flatter source zROCs. In addition, conditions expected to reduce recollection (i.e., divided attention and amnesia) had comparable effects on source memory in simple and complex conditions, suggesting that differences between simple and complex conditions were due to differences in the nature of recollection, rather than differences in the utility of familiarity. The results suggest that under conditions of high complexity, recollection can appear more graded, and it can produce curved ROCs. The results have implications for measurement models and for current theories of recognition memory.

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).

Avalanches in compressed Ti-Ni shape-memory porous alloys: An acoustic emission study.

PubMed

Soto-Parra, Daniel; Zhang, Xiaoxin; Cao, Shanshan; Vives, Eduard; Salje, Ekhard K H; Planes, Antoni

2015-06-01

Mechanical avalanches during compression of martensitic porous Ti-Ni have been characterized by high-frequency acoustic emission (AE). Two sequences of AE signals were found in the same sample. The first sequence is mainly generated by detwinning at the early stages of compression while fracture dominates the later stages. Fracture also determines the catastrophic failure (big crash). For high-porosity samples, the AE energies of both sequences display power-law distributions with exponents ɛ≃2 (twinning) and 1.7 (fracture). The two power laws confirm that twinning and fracture both lead to avalanche criticality during compression. As twinning precedes fracture, the observation of twinning allows us to predict incipient fracture of the porous shape memory material as an early warning sign (i.e., in bone implants) before the fracture collapse actually happens.

Fabrication of tough epoxy with shape memory effects by UV-assisted direct-ink write printing.

PubMed

Chen, Kaijuan; Kuang, Xiao; Li, Vincent; Kang, Guozheng; Qi, H Jerry

2018-03-07

3D printing of epoxy-based shape memory polymers with high mechanical strength, excellent thermal stability and chemical resistance is highly desirable for practical applications. However, thermally cured epoxy in general is difficult to print directly. There have been limited numbers of successes in printing epoxy but they suffer from relatively poor mechanical properties. Here, we present an ultraviolet (UV)-assisted 3D printing of thermally cured epoxy composites with high tensile toughness via a two-stage curing approach. The ink containing UV curable resin and epoxy oligomer is used for UV-assisted direct-ink write (DIW)-based 3D printing followed by thermal curing of the part containing the epoxy oligomer. The UV curable resin forms a network by photo polymerization after the 1st stage of UV curing, which can maintain the printed architecture at an elevated temperature. The 2nd stage thermal curing of the epoxy oligomer yields an interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) composite with highly enhanced mechanical properties. It is found that the printed IPN epoxy composites enabled by the two-stage curing show isotropic mechanical properties and high tensile toughness. We demonstrated that the 3D-printed high-toughness epoxy composites show good shape memory properties. This UV-assisted DIW 3D printing via a two-stage curing method can broaden the application of 3D printing to fabricate thermoset materials with enhanced tensile toughness and tunable properties for high-performance and functional applications.

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

The Importance of Memory Specificity and Memory Coherence for the Self: Linking Two Characteristics of Autobiographical Memory

PubMed Central

Vanderveren, Elien; Bijttebier, Patricia; Hermans, Dirk

2017-01-01

Autobiographical memory forms a network of memories about personal experiences that defines and supports well-being and effective functioning of the self in various ways. During the last three decades, there have been two characteristics of autobiographical memory that have received special interest regarding their role in psychological well-being and psychopathology, namely memory specificity and memory coherence. Memory specificity refers to the extent to which retrieved autobiographical memories are specific (i.e., memories about a particular experience that happened on a particular day). Difficulty retrieving specific memories interferes with effective functioning of the self and is related to depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Memory coherence refers to the narrative expression of the overall structure of autobiographical memories. It has likewise been related to psychological well-being and the occurrence of psychopathology. Research on memory specificity and memory coherence has developed as two largely independent research domains, even though they show much overlap. This raises some important theoretical questions. How do these two characteristics of autobiographical memory relate to each other, both theoretically and empirically? Additionally, how can the integration of these two facilitate our understanding of the importance of autobiographical memory for the self? In this article, we give a critical overview of memory specificity and memory coherence and their relation to the self. We link both features of autobiographical memory by describing some important similarities and by formulating hypotheses about how they might relate to each other. By situating both memory specificity and memory coherence within Conway and Pleydell-Pearce’s Self-Memory System, we make a first attempt at a theoretical integration. Finally, we suggest some new and exciting research possibilities and explain how both research fields could benefit from integration in future research. PMID:29312089

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.

Culture modulates implicit ownership-induced self-bias in memory.

PubMed

Sparks, Samuel; Cunningham, Sheila J; Kritikos, Ada

2016-08-01

The relation of incoming stimuli to the self implicitly determines the allocation of cognitive resources. Cultural variations in the self-concept shape cognition, but the extent is unclear because the majority of studies sample only Western participants. We report cultural differences (Asian versus Western) in ownership-induced self-bias in recognition memory for objects. In two experiments, participants allocated a series of images depicting household objects to self-owned or other-owned virtual baskets based on colour cues before completing a surprise recognition memory test for the objects. The 'other' was either a stranger or a close other. In both experiments, Western participants showed greater recognition memory accuracy for self-owned compared with other-owned objects, consistent with an independent self-construal. In Experiment 1, which required minimal attention to the owned objects, Asian participants showed no such ownership-related bias in recognition accuracy. In Experiment 2, which required attention to owned objects to move them along the screen, Asian participants again showed no overall memory advantage for self-owned items and actually exhibited higher recognition accuracy for mother-owned than self-owned objects, reversing the pattern observed for Westerners. This is consistent with an interdependent self-construal which is sensitive to the particular relationship between the self and other. Overall, our results suggest that the self acts as an organising principle for allocating cognitive resources, but that the way it is constructed depends upon cultural experience. Additionally, the manifestation of these cultural differences in self-representation depends on the allocation of attentional resources to self- and other-associated stimuli. Crown Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Modeling for stress-strain curve of a porous NiTi under compressive loading

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Ying; Taya, Minoru

2005-05-01

Two models for predicting the stress-strain curve of porous NiTi under compressive loading are presented in this paper. Porous NiTi shape memory alloy is investigated as a composite composed of solid NiTi as matrix and pores as inclusions. Eshelby"s equivalent inclusion method and Mori-Tanaka"s mean-field theory are employed in both models. In the first model, the geometry of the pores is assumed as sphere. The composite is with close-cells. While in the second model, two geometries of the pores, sphere and ellipsoid, are investigated. The pores are interconnected to each other forming an open-cell microstructure. The two adjacent pores connected along equator ring are investigated as a unit. Two pores interact with each other as they are connected. The average eigenstrain of each unit is obtained by taking the average of each pore"s eigenstrain. The stress-strain curves of porous shape memory alloy with spherical pores and ellipsoidal pores are compared, it is found that the shape of the pores has a nonignorable influence on the mechanical property of the porous NiTi. Comparison of the stress-strain curves of the two models shows that introducing of the average eigenstrains in the second model makes the predictions more agreeable to the experimental results.

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.

3D Printing of Highly Stretchable, Shape-Memory, and Self-Healing Elastomer toward Novel 4D Printing.

PubMed

Kuang, Xiao; Chen, Kaijuan; Dunn, Conner K; Wu, Jiangtao; Li, Vincent C F; Qi, H Jerry

2018-02-28

The three-dimensional (3D) printing of flexible and stretchable materials with smart functions such as shape memory (SM) and self-healing (SH) is highly desirable for the development of future 4D printing technology for myriad applications, such as soft actuators, deployable smart medical devices, and flexible electronics. Here, we report a novel ink that can be used for the 3D printing of highly stretchable, SM, and SH elastomer via UV-light-assisted direct-ink-write printing. An ink containing urethane diacrylate and a linear semicrystalline polymer is developed for the 3D printing of a semi-interpenetrating polymer network elastomer that can be stretched by up to 600%. The 3D-printed complex structures show interesting functional properties, such as high strain SM and SM -assisted SH capability. We demonstrate that such a 3D-printed SM elastomer has the potential application for biomedical devices, such as vascular repair devices. This research paves a new way for the further development of novel 4D printing, soft robotics, and biomedical devices.

Fabrication and modeling of shape memory alloy springs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heidari, B.; Kadkhodaei, M.; Barati, M.; Karimzadeh, F.

2016-12-01

In this paper, shape memory alloy (SMA) helical springs are produced by shape setting two sets of NiTi (Ti-55.87 at% Ni) wires, one of which showing shape memory effect and another one showing pseudoelasticity at the ambient temperature. Different pitches as well as annealing temperatures are tried to investigate the effect of such parameters on the thermomechanical characteristics of the fabricated springs. Phase transformation temperatures of the products are measured by differential scanning calorimetry and are compared with those of the original wires. Compression tests are also carried out, and stiffness of each spring is determined. The desired pitches are so that a group of springs experiences phase transition during loading while the other does not. The former shows a varying stiffness upon the application of compression, but the latter acts as passive springs with a predetermined stiffness. Based on the von-Mises effective stress and strain, an enhanced one-dimensional constitutive model is further proposed to describe the shear stress-strain response within the coils of an SMA spring. The theoretically predicted force-displacement responses of the produced springs are shown to be in a reasonable agreement with the experimental results. Finally, effects of variations in geometric parameters on the axial force-displacement response of an SMA spring are investigated.

Aging and the Shape of Cognitive Change Before Death: Terminal Decline Or Terminal Drop?

PubMed Central

Hultsch, David F.; Dixon, Roger A.

2011-01-01

Objectives. Relative to typical age-related cognitive decrements, the terms “terminal decline” and “terminal drop” refer to the phenomenon of increased cognitive decline in proximity to death. Given that these terms are not necessarily synonymous, we examined the important theoretical distinction between the two alternative trajectories or shapes of changes they imply. Methods. We used 12-year (5-wave) data from the Victoria Longitudinal Study to directly test whether pre-death cognitive decrements follow a terminal decline (generally gradual) or a terminal drop (more abrupt) shape. Pre-death trajectories of cognitive decline for n = 265 decedents (Mage = 72.67 years, SD = 6.44) were examined separately for 5 key cognitive constructs (verbal speed, working memory, episodic memory, semantic memory, and crystallized ability). Results. Several classes of linear mixed models evaluated whether cognitive decline increased per additional year closer to death. Findings indicated that the shape of pre-death cognitive change was predominantly characterized by decline that is steeper as compared with typical aging-related change, but still best described as slow and steady decline, especially as compared with precipitous drop. Discussion. The present findings suggest that terminal decline and terminal drop trajectories may not be mutually exclusive but could rather reflect distinct developmental trajectories within the same individual. PMID:21300703

Aging and the shape of cognitive change before death: terminal decline or terminal drop?

PubMed

MacDonald, Stuart W S; Hultsch, David F; Dixon, Roger A

2011-05-01

Relative to typical age-related cognitive decrements, the terms "terminal decline" and "terminal drop" refer to the phenomenon of increased cognitive decline in proximity to death. Given that these terms are not necessarily synonymous, we examined the important theoretical distinction between the two alternative trajectories or shapes of changes they imply. We used 12-year (5-wave) data from the Victoria Longitudinal Study to directly test whether pre-death cognitive decrements follow a terminal decline (generally gradual) or a terminal drop (more abrupt) shape. Pre-death trajectories of cognitive decline for n=265 decedents (Mage = 72.67 years, SD = 6.44) were examined separately for 5 key cognitive constructs (verbal speed, working memory, episodic memory, semantic memory, and crystallized ability). Several classes of linear mixed models evaluated whether cognitive decline increased per additional year closer to death. Findings indicated that the shape of pre-death cognitive change was predominantly characterized by decline that is steeper as compared with typical aging-related change, but still best described as slow and steady decline, especially as compared with precipitous drop. The present findings suggest that terminal decline and terminal drop trajectories may not be mutually exclusive but could rather reflect distinct developmental trajectories within the same individual.

Temperature dependent evolution of wrinkled single-crystal silicon ribbons on shape memory polymers.

PubMed

Wang, Yu; Yu, Kai; Qi, H Jerry; Xiao, Jianliang

2017-10-25

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) can remember two or more distinct shapes, and thus can have a lot of potential applications. This paper presents combined experimental and theoretical studies on the wrinkling of single-crystal Si ribbons on SMPs and the temperature dependent evolution. Using the shape memory effect of heat responsive SMPs, this study provides a method to build wavy forms of single-crystal silicon thin films on top of SMP substrates. Silicon ribbons obtained from a Si-on-insulator (SOI) wafer are released and transferred onto the surface of programmed SMPs. Then such bilayer systems are recovered at different temperatures, yielding well-defined, wavy profiles of Si ribbons. The wavy profiles are shown to evolve with time, and the evolution behavior strongly depends on the recovery temperature. At relatively low recovery temperatures, both wrinkle wavelength and amplitude increase with time as evolution progresses. Finite element analysis (FEA) accounting for the thermomechanical behavior of SMPs is conducted to study the wrinkling of Si ribbons on SMPs, which shows good agreement with experiment. Merging of wrinkles is observed in FEA, which could explain the increase of wrinkle wavelength observed in the experiment. This study can have important implications for smart stretchable electronics, wrinkling mechanics, stimuli-responsive surface engineering, and advanced manufacturing.

Biodegradable toughened nanohybrid shape memory polymer for smart biomedical applications.

PubMed

Biswas, Arpan; Singh, Akhand Pratap; Rana, Dipak; Aswal, Vinod K; Maiti, Pralay

2018-05-31

A polyurethane nanohybrid has been prepared through the in situ polymerization of an aliphatic diisocyanate, ester polyol and a chain extender in the presence of two-dimensional platelets. Polymerization within the platelet galleries helps to intercalate, generate diverse nanostructure and improve the nano to macro scale self-assembly, which leads to a significant enhancement in the toughness and thermal stability of the nanohybrid in comparison to pure polyurethane. The extensive interactions, the reason for property enhancement, between nanoplatelets and polymer chains are revealed through spectroscopic measurements and thermal studies. The nanohybrid exhibits significant improvement in the shape memory phenomena (91% recovery) at the physiological temperature, which makes it suitable for many biomedical applications. The structural alteration, studied through temperature dependent small angle neutron scattering and X-ray diffraction, along with unique crystallization behavior have extensively revealed the special shape memory behavior of this nanohybrid and facilitated the understanding of the molecular flipping in the presence of nanoplatelets. Cell line studies and subsequent imaging testify that this nanohybrid is a superior biomaterial that is suitable for use in the biomedical arena. In vivo studies on albino rats exhibit the potential of the shape memory effect of the nanohybrid as a self-tightening suture in keyhole surgery by appropriately closing the lips of the wound through the recovery of the programmed shape at physiological temperature with faster healing of the wound and without the formation of any scar. Further, the improved biodegradable nature along with the rapid self-expanding ability of the nanohybrid at 37 °C make it appropriate for many biomedical applications including a self-expanding stent for occlusion recovery due to its tough and flexible nature.

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.

Emotion and autobiographical memory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holland, Alisha C.; Kensinger, Elizabeth A.

2010-03-01

Autobiographical memory encompasses our recollections of specific, personal events. In this article, we review the interactions between emotion and autobiographical memory, focusing on two broad ways in which these interactions occur. First, the emotional content of an experience can influence the way in which the event is remembered. Second, emotions and emotional goals experienced at the time of autobiographical retrieval can influence the information recalled. We discuss the behavioral manifestations of each of these types of interactions and describe the neural mechanisms that may support those interactions. We discuss how findings from the clinical literature (e.g., regarding depression) and the social psychology literature (e.g., on emotion regulation) might inform future investigations of the interplay between the emotions experienced at the time of retrieval and the memories recalled, and we present ideas for future research in this domain.

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.

Energy-dispersive neutron imaging and diffraction of magnetically driven twins in a Ni2MnGa single crystal magnetic shape memory alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kabra, Saurabh; Kelleher, Joe; Kockelmann, Winfried; Gutmann, Matthias; Tremsin, Anton

2016-09-01

Single crystals of a partially twinned magnetic shape memory alloy, Ni2MnGa, were imaged using neutron diffraction and energy-resolved imaging techniques at the ISIS spallation neutron source. Single crystal neutron diffraction showed that the crystal produces two twin variants with a specific crystallographic relationship. Transmission images were captured using a time of flight MCP/Timepix neutron counting detector. The twinned and untwinned regions were clearly distinguishable in images corresponding to narrow-energy transmission images. Further, the spatially-resolved transmission spectra were used to elucidate the orientations of the crystallites in the different volumes of the crystal.

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).

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

High density submicron magnetoresistive random access memory (invited)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tehrani, S.; Chen, E.; Durlam, M.; DeHerrera, M.; Slaughter, J. M.; Shi, J.; Kerszykowski, G.

1999-04-01

Various giant magnetoresistance material structures were patterned and studied for their potential as memory elements. The preferred memory element, based on pseudo-spin valve structures, was designed with two magnetic stacks (NiFeCo/CoFe) of different thickness with Cu as an interlayer. The difference in thickness results in dissimilar switching fields due to the shape anisotropy at deep submicron dimensions. It was found that a lower switching current can be achieved when the bits have a word line that wraps around the bit 1.5 times. Submicron memory elements integrated with complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) transistors maintained their characteristics and no degradation to the CMOS devices was observed. Selectivity between memory elements in high-density arrays was demonstrated.

Young and older adults' beliefs about effective ways to mitigate age-related memory decline.

PubMed

Horhota, Michelle; Lineweaver, Tara; Ositelu, Monique; Summers, Kristi; Hertzog, Christopher

2012-06-01

This study investigated whether young and older adults vary in their beliefs about the impact of various mitigating factors on age-related memory decline. Eighty young (ages 18-23) and 80 older (ages 60-82) participants reported their beliefs about their own memory abilities and the strategies that they use in their everyday lives to attempt to control their memory. Participants also reported their beliefs about memory change with age for hypothetical target individuals who were described as using (or not using) various means to mitigate memory decline. There were no age differences in personal beliefs about control over current or future memory ability. However, the two age groups differed in the types of strategies they used in their everyday life to control their memory. Young adults were more likely to use internal memory strategies, whereas older adults were more likely to focus on cognitive exercise and maintaining physical health as ways to optimize their memory ability. There were no age differences in rated memory change across the life span in hypothetical individuals. Both young and older adults perceived strategies related to improving physical and cognitive health as effective means of mitigating memory loss with age, whereas internal memory strategies were perceived as less effective means for controlling age-related memory decline. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved

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.

The Attentional Boost Effect: Transient increases in attention to one task enhance performance in a second task.

PubMed

Swallow, Khena M; Jiang, Yuhong V

2010-04-01

Recent work on event perception suggests that perceptual processing increases when events change. An important question is how such changes influence the way other information is processed, particularly during dual-task performance. In this study, participants monitored a long series of distractor items for an occasional target as they simultaneously encoded unrelated background scenes. The appearance of an occasional target could have two opposite effects on the secondary task: It could draw attention away from the second task, or, as a change in the ongoing event, it could improve secondary task performance. Results were consistent with the second possibility. Memory for scenes presented simultaneously with the targets was better than memory for scenes that preceded or followed the targets. This effect was observed when the primary detection task involved visual feature oddball detection, auditory oddball detection, and visual color-shape conjunction detection. It was eliminated when the detection task was omitted, and when it required an arbitrary response mapping. The appearance of occasional, task-relevant events appears to trigger a temporal orienting response that facilitates processing of concurrently attended information (Attentional Boost Effect). Copyright 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The Attentional Boost Effect: Transient Increases in Attention to One Task Enhance Performance in a Second Task

PubMed Central

Swallow, Khena M.; Jiang, Yuhong V.

2009-01-01

Recent work on event perception suggests that perceptual processing increases when events change. An important question is how such changes influence the way other information is processed, particularly during dual-task performance. In this study, participants monitored a long series of distractor items for an occasional target as they simultaneously encoded unrelated background scenes. The appearance of an occasional target could have two opposite effects on the secondary task: It could draw attention away from the second task, or, as a change in the ongoing event, it could improve secondary task performance. Results were consistent with the second possibility. Memory for scenes presented simultaneously with the targets was better than memory for scenes that preceded or followed the targets. This effect was observed when the primary detection task involved visual feature oddball detection, auditory oddball detection, and visual color-shape conjunction detection. It was eliminated when the detection task was omitted, and when it required an arbitrary response mapping. The appearance of occasional, task-relevant events appears to trigger a temporal orienting response that facilitates processing of concurrently attended information (Attentional Boost Effect). PMID:20080232

Pathways from Trauma to Psychotic Experiences: A Theoretically Informed Model of Posttraumatic Stress in Psychosis

PubMed Central

Hardy, Amy

2017-01-01

In recent years, empirical data and theoretical accounts relating to the relationship between childhood victimization and psychotic experiences have accumulated. Much of this work has focused on co-occurring Posttraumatic Stress Disorder or putative causal mechanisms in isolation from each other. The complexity of posttraumatic stress reactions experienced in psychosis remains poorly understood. This paper therefore attempts to synthesize the current evidence base into a theoretically informed, multifactorial model of posttraumatic stress in psychosis. Three trauma-related vulnerability factors are proposed to give rise to intrusions and to affect how people appraise and cope with them. First, understandable attempts to survive trauma become habitual ways of regulating emotion, manifesting in cognitive-affective, behavioral and interpersonal responses. Second, event memories, consisting of perceptual and episodic representations, are impacted by emotion experienced during trauma. Third, personal semantic memory, specifically appraisals of the self and others, are shaped by event memories. It is proposed these vulnerability factors have the potential to lead to two types of intrusions. The first type is anomalous experiences arising from emotion regulation and/or the generation of novel images derived from trauma memory. The second type is trauma memory intrusions reflecting, to varying degrees, the retrieval of perceptual, episodic and personal semantic representations. It is speculated trauma memory intrusions may be experienced on a continuum from contextualized to fragmented, depending on memory encoding and retrieval. Personal semantic memory will then impact on how intrusions are appraised, with habitual emotion regulation strategies influencing people’s coping responses to these. Three vignettes are outlined to illustrate how the model accounts for different pathways between victimization and psychosis, and implications for therapy are considered. The model is the first to propose how emotion regulation and autobiographical memory may lead to a range of intrusive experiences in psychosis, and therefore attempts to explain the different phenomenological associations observed between trauma and intrusions. However, it includes a number of novel hypotheses that require empirical testing, which may lead to further refinement. It is anticipated the model will assist research and practice, in the hope of supporting people to manage the impact of victimization on their lives. PMID:28588514

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.

Thermomechanical Methodology for Stabilizing Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) Response

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Padula, II, Santo A (Inventor)

2013-01-01

Methods and apparatuses for stabilizing the strain-temperature response for a shape memory alloy are provided. To perform stabilization of a second sample of the shape memory alloy, a first sample of the shape memory alloy is selected for isobaric treatment and the second sample is selected for isothermal treatment. When applying the isobaric treatment to the first sample, a constant stress is applied to the first sample. Temperature is also cycled from a minimum temperature to a maximum temperature until a strain on the first sample stabilizes. Once the strain on the first sample stabilizes, the isothermal treatment is performed on the second sample. During isothermal treatment, different levels of stress on the second sample are applied until a strain on the second sample matches the stabilized strain on the first sample.

Thermomechanical Methodology for Stabilizing Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) Response

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Padula, Santo A., II (Inventor)

2016-01-01

Methods and apparatuses for stabilizing the strain-temperature response for a shape memory alloy are provided. To perform stabilization of a second sample of the shape memory alloy, a first sample of the shape memory alloy is selected for isobaric treatment and the second sample is selected for isothermal treatment. When applying the isobaric treatment to the first sample, a constant stress is applied to the first sample. Temperature is also cycled from a minimum temperature to a maximum temperature until a strain on the first sample stabilizes. Once the strain on the first sample stabilizes, the isothermal treatment is performed on the second sample. During isothermal treatment, different levels of stress on the second sample are applied until a strain on the second sample matches the stabilized strain on the first sample.

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

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

Zhang, Xiaoyong, E-mail: zhangxy@buaa.edu.cn, E-mail: yanxiaojun@buaa.edu.cn; Yan, Xiaojun, E-mail: zhangxy@buaa.edu.cn, E-mail: yanxiaojun@buaa.edu.cn; Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Aero-Engine, Beijing 100191

This note presents a component-level frequency tunable isolator for vibration-sensitive chips. The isolator employed 8 U-shaped shape memory alloy (SMA) beams to support an isolation island (used for mounting chips). Due to the temperature-induced Young’s modulus variation of SMA, the system stiffness of the isolator can be controlled through heating the SMA beams. In such a way, the natural frequency of the isolator can be tuned. A prototype was fabricated to evaluate the concept. The test results show that the natural frequency of the isolator can be tuned in the range of 64 Hz–97 Hz by applying different heating strategies.more » Moreover, resonant vibration can be suppressed significantly (the transmissibility decreases about 65% near the resonant frequency) using a real-time tuning method.« less

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.

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

Hu, Xiaobo; Zhou, Jing; Vatankhah-Varnosfaderani, Mohammad

Shapeshifting enables a wide range of engineering and biomedical applications, but until now transformations have required external triggers. This prerequisite limits viability in closed or inert systems and puts forward the challenge of developing materials with intrinsically encoded shape evolution. Herein we demonstrate programmable shape-memory materials that perform a sequence of encoded actuations under constant environment conditions without using an external trigger. We employ dual network hydrogels: in the first network, covalent crosslinks are introduced for elastic energy storage, and in the second one, temporary hydrogen-bonds regulate the energy release rate. Through strain-induced and time-dependent reorganization of the reversible hydrogen-bonds,more » this dual network allows for encoding both the rate and pathway of shape transformations on timescales from seconds to hours. In conclusion, this generic mechanism for programming trigger-free shapeshifting opens new ways to design autonomous actuators, drug-release systems and active implants.« less

Programming temporal shapeshifting

DOE PAGES

Hu, Xiaobo; Zhou, Jing; Vatankhah-Varnosfaderani, Mohammad; ...

2016-09-27

Shapeshifting enables a wide range of engineering and biomedical applications, but until now transformations have required external triggers. This prerequisite limits viability in closed or inert systems and puts forward the challenge of developing materials with intrinsically encoded shape evolution. Herein we demonstrate programmable shape-memory materials that perform a sequence of encoded actuations under constant environment conditions without using an external trigger. We employ dual network hydrogels: in the first network, covalent crosslinks are introduced for elastic energy storage, and in the second one, temporary hydrogen-bonds regulate the energy release rate. Through strain-induced and time-dependent reorganization of the reversible hydrogen-bonds,more » this dual network allows for encoding both the rate and pathway of shape transformations on timescales from seconds to hours. In conclusion, this generic mechanism for programming trigger-free shapeshifting opens new ways to design autonomous actuators, drug-release systems and active implants.« less

Short-Term Memory in Mathematics-Proficient and Mathematics-Disabled Students as a Function of Input-Modality/Output-Modality Pairings.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Webster, Raymond E.

1980-01-01

A significant two-way input modality by output modality interaction suggested that short term memory capacity among the groups differed as a function of the modality used to present the items in combination with the output response required. (Author/CL)

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

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

Training-Associated Emotional Arousal Shapes Endocannabinoid Modulation of Spatial Memory Retrieval in Rats.

PubMed

Morena, Maria; De Castro, Valentina; Gray, J Megan; Palmery, Maura; Trezza, Viviana; Roozendaal, Benno; Hill, Matthew N; Campolongo, Patrizia

2015-10-14

Variations in environmental aversiveness influence emotional memory processes in rats. We have previously shown that cannabinoid effects on memory are dependent on the stress level at the time of training as well as on the aversiveness of the environmental context. Here, we investigated whether the hippocampal endocannabinoid system modulates memory retrieval depending on the training-associated arousal level. Male adult Sprague Dawley rats were trained on a water maze spatial task at two different water temperatures (19°C and 25°C) to elicit either higher or lower stress levels, respectively. Rats trained under the higher stress condition had better memory and higher corticosterone concentrations than rats trained at the lower stress condition. The cannabinoid receptor agonist WIN55212-2 (10-30 ng/side), the 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) hydrolysis inhibitor JZL184 (0.1-1 μg/side), and the anandamide (AEA) hydrolysis inhibitor URB597 (10-30 ng/side) were administered bilaterally into the hippocampus 60 min before probe-trial retention testing. WIN55212-2 or JZL184, but not URB597, impaired probe-trial performances only of rats trained at the higher stressful condition. Furthermore, rats trained under higher stress levels displayed an increase in hippocampal 2-AG, but not AEA, levels at the time of retention testing and a decreased affinity of the main 2-AG-degrading enzyme for its substrate. The present findings indicate that the endocannabinoid 2-AG in the hippocampus plays a key role in the selective regulation of spatial memory retrieval of stressful experience, shedding light on the neurobiological mechanisms involved in the impact of stress effects on memory processing. Endogenous cannabinoids play a central role in the modulation of memory for emotional events. Here we demonstrate that the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol in the hippocampus, a brain region crucially involved in the regulation of memory processes, selectively modulates spatial memory recall of stressful experiences. Thus, our findings provide evidence that the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol is a key player in mediating the impact of stress on memory retrieval. These findings can pave the way to new potential therapeutic intervention for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, where a previous exposure to traumatic events could alter the response to traumatic memory recall leading to mental illness. Copyright © 2015 the authors 0270-6474/15/3513963-13$15.00/0.

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.

The effect of the order in which episodic autobiographical memories versus autobiographical knowledge are shared on feelings of closeness.

PubMed

Brandon, Nicole R; Beike, Denise R; Cole, Holly E

2017-07-01

Autobiographical memories (AMs) can be used to create and maintain closeness with others [Alea, N., & Bluck, S. (2003). Why are you telling me that? A conceptual model of the social function of autobiographical memory. Memory, 11(2), 165-178]. However, the differential effects of memory specificity are not well established. Two studies with 148 participants tested whether the order in which autobiographical knowledge (AK) and specific episodic AM (EAM) are shared affects feelings of closeness. Participants read two memories hypothetically shared by each of four strangers. The strangers first shared either AK or an EAM, and then shared either AK or an EAM. Participants were randomly assigned to read either positive or negative AMs from the strangers. Findings suggest that people feel closer to those who share positive AMs in the same way they construct memories: starting with general and moving to specific.

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.

Effect of platinum substitution on the structural and magnetic properties of Ni2MnGa ferromagnetic shape memory alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Sanjay; D'Souza, S. W.; Nayak, J.; Caron, L.; Suard, E.; Chadov, S.; Felser, C.

2016-04-01

Ni2MnGa exhibits ideal ferromagnetic shape memory properties, however, brittleness and a low-temperature martensite transition hinder its technological applications motivating the search for novel materials showing better mechanical properties as well as higher transition temperatures. In this work, the crystal structure, phase transitions, and the magnetic properties of quaternary Ni2 -xPtxMnGa (0 ≤x ≤1 ) shape memory alloys were studied experimentally by x-ray diffraction, magnetization measurements, and neutron diffraction and compared to ab initio calculations. Compositions within 0 ≤x ≤0.25 exhibit the cubic austenite phase at room temperature. The x ≈0.3 composition exhibits a seven-layer modulated monoclinic martensite structure. Within 0.4 ≤x ≤1 , the system stabilizes in the nonmodulated tetragonal structure. The martensite transition has very narrow thermal hysteresis 0 ≤x ≤0.3 , which is a typical characteristic of a shape memory alloy. By increasing x , the temperature of the martensite transition increases, while that of the magnetic transition decreases. The x =1 composition (NiPtMnGa) in the martensite phase undergoes a para-to-ferrimagnetic transition. The saturation magnetization exhibits a nontrivial behavior with increasing up to x ≈0.25 , above which, it suddenly decreases. Powder neutron diffraction reveals the presence of antisite disorder, with about 17% of the original Ga sites being occupied by Mn. Computations suggest that the antisite disorder triggers an antiferromagnetic coupling between two Mn atoms in different crystallographic positions, resulting into a sudden drop of the saturation magnetization for higher x .

Visual cues for the retrieval of landmark memories by navigating wood ants.

PubMed

Harris, Robert A; Graham, Paul; Collett, Thomas S

2007-01-23

Even on short routes, ants can be guided by multiple visual memories. We investigate here the cues controlling memory retrieval as wood ants approach a one- or two-edged landmark to collect sucrose at a point along its base. In such tasks, ants store the desired retinal position of landmark edges at several points along their route. They guide subsequent trips by retrieving the appropriate memory and moving to bring the edges in the scene toward the stored positions. The apparent width of the landmark turns out to be a powerful cue for retrieving the desired retinal position of a landmark edge. Two other potential cues, the landmark's apparent height and the distance that the ant walks, have little effect on memory retrieval. A simple model encapsulates these conclusions and reproduces the ants' routes in several conditions. According to this model, the ant stores a look-up table. Each entry contains the apparent width of the landmark and the desired retinal position of vertical edges. The currently perceived width provides an index for retrieving the associated stored edge positions. The model accounts for the population behavior of ants and the idiosyncratic training routes of individual ants. Our results imply binding between the edge of a shape and its width and, further, imply that assessing the width of a shape does not depend on the presence of any particular local feature, such as a landmark edge. This property makes the ant's retrieval and guidance system relatively robust to edge occlusions.

Emotion and Autobiographical Memory

PubMed Central

Holland, Alisha C.; Kensinger, Elizabeth A.

2010-01-01

Autobiographical memory encompasses our recollections of specific, personal events. In this article, we review the interactions between emotion and autobiographical memory, focusing on two broad ways in which these interactions occur. First, the emotional content of an experience can influence the way in which the event is remembered. Second, emotions and emotional goals experienced at the time of autobiographical retrieval can influence the information recalled. We discuss the behavioral manifestations of each of these types of interactions and describe the neural mechanisms that may support those interactions. We discuss how findings from the clinical literature (e.g., regarding depression) and the social psychology literature (e.g., on emotion regulation) might inform future investigations of the interplay between the emotions experienced at the time of retrieval and the memories recalled, and we present ideas for future research in this domain. PMID:20374933

Active versus passive maintenance of visual nonverbal memory.

PubMed

McKeown, Denis; Holt, Jessica; Delvenne, Jean-Francois; Smith, Amy; Griffiths, Benjamin

2014-08-01

Forgetting over the short term has challenged researchers for more than a century, largely because of the difficulty of controlling what goes on within the memory retention interval. But the "recent-negative-probe" procedure offers a valuable paradigm, by examining the influences of (presumably) unattended memoranda from prior trials. Here we used a recent-probe task to investigate forgetting for visual nonverbal short-term memory. The target stimuli (two visually presented abstract shapes) on a trial were followed after a retention interval by a probe, and participants indicated whether the probe matched one of the target items. Proactive interference, and hence memory for old trial probes, was observed, whereby participants were slowed in rejecting a nonmatching probe on the current trial that nevertheless matched a target item on the previous trial (a recent-negative probe). The attraction of the paradigm is that, by uncovering proactive influences of past-trial probe stimuli, it can be argued that active maintenance in memory of those probes is unlikely. In two experiments, we recorded such proactive interference of prior-trial items over a range of interstimulus (ISI) and intertrial (ITI) intervals (between 1 and 6 s, respectively). Consistent with a proposed two-process memory conception (the active-passive memory model, or APM), actively maintained memories on current trials decayed, but passively "maintained," or unattended, visual memories of stimuli on past trials did not.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Control of an innovative super-capacitor-powered shape-memory-alloy actuated accumulator for blowout preventer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Jian; Li, Peng; Song, Gangbing; Ren, Zhang

2017-01-01

The design of a super-capacitor-powered shape-memory-alloy (SMA) actuated accumulator for blowout preventer (BOP) presented in this paper featured several advantages over conventional hydraulic accumulators including instant large current drive, quick system response and elimination of need for the pressure conduits. However, the mechanical design introduced two challenges, the nonlinear nature of SMA actuators and the varying voltage provided by a super capacitor, for control system design. A cerebellar model articulation controller (CMAC) feedforward plus PID controller was developed with the aim of compensation for these adverse effects. Experiments were conducted on a scaled down model and experimental results show that precision control can be achieved with the proposed configurations and algorithms.

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

[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.

Retrieval Induces Hippocampal-Dependent Reconsolidation of Spatial Memory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rossato, Janine I.; Medina, Jorge H.; Izquierdo, Ivan; Cammarota, Martin; Bevilaqua, Lia R. M.

2006-01-01

Nonreinforced retrieval can cause extinction and/or reconsolidation, two processes that affect subsequent retrieval in opposite ways. Using the Morris water maze task we show that, in the rat, repeated nonreinforced expression of spatial memory causes extinction, which is unaffected by inhibition of protein synthesis within the CA1 region of the…

Self-Referencing Enhances Memory Specificity with Age

PubMed Central

Hamami, Ayala; Serbun, Sarah J.; Gutchess, Angela H.

2011-01-01

Self-referencing has been identified as an advantageous mnemonic strategy for young and older adults. However, little research has investigated the ways in which self-referencing may influence older adults’ memory for details, which is typically impaired with age, beyond memory for the item itself. Experiment 1 assessed the effects of self- and other-referencing on memory for visually detailed pictures of objects in thirty-two young and thirty-two older adults. Results indicate that self- and close other-referencing similarly enhance general (item) and specific (detail) recognition for both young and older adults relative to the distant other condition. Experiment 2 extended these findings to source memory, with young and older adults encoding verbal information in self-referent, semantic, and structural conditions. Findings suggest that self-referencing provides an age-equivalent boost in general memory and specific memory for specific source details. We conclude that the mnemonic benefits of referencing the self extend to specific memory for visual and verbal information across the lifespan. PMID:21480719

Study on stimulus-responsive cellulose-based polymeric materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Hongsheng

Stimulus-responsive cellulose-based polymeric materials were developed by physical and chemical approaches. The thermal, structural, mechanical and morphological properties of the samples were comprehensively investigated by multiple tools. Shape memory effect (SME), programming-structure-property relationship and underling mechanisms were emphasized in this study. Some new concepts, such as heterogeneous-twin-switch, path-dependent multi-shape, rapidly switchable water-sensitive SME were established. The samples were divided into two categories. For the first category, cellulose nano-whiskers (CNWs) were incorporated into crystalline shape memory polyurethane (SMPU) and thermal plastic polyurethane (TPU). The CNW-SMPU nano-composites had heterogeneous switches. Triple- and multi-shape effects were achieved for the CNW-SMPU nano-composites by applying into appropriate thermal-aqueous-mechanical programming. Furthermore, the thermally triggered shape recovery of the composites was found to be tuneable, depending on the PCN content. Theoretical prediction along with numerical analysis was conducted, providing evidence on the possible microstructure of the CNW-SMPU nano-composites. Rapidly switchable water-sensitive SME of the CNW-TPU nano-composites was unprecedentedly studied, which originated from the reversible regulation of hydrogen bonding by water. The samples in the second category consisted of cellulose-polyurethane (PU) blends, cellulose-poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) composites and modified cellulose with supramolecular switches, featuring the requirement of homogeneous cellulose solution in the synthesis process. The reversible behaviours of the cellulose-PU blends in wet-dry cycles as well as the underlying shape memory mechanism were characterized and disclosed. The micro-patterns of the blends were found to be self-similar in fractal dimensions. Cellulose-PAA semi-interpenetrating networks exhibited mechanical adaptability in wet-dry cycles. A type of thermally reversible quadruple hydrogen bonding units, ureidopyrimidinone (UPy), reacted with the cellulose as pendent side-groups, which may impart the modified cellulose with thermal sensitivity. It is the first attempt to explore the natural cellulose as smart polymeric materials systematically and comprehensively. The concepts originally created in the study provided new viewpoints and routes for the development of novel shape memory polymers. The findings significantly benefits extension of the potential application of the cellulose in smart polymeric materials field.

Memory for light as a quantum process.

PubMed

Lobino, M; Kupchak, C; Figueroa, E; Lvovsky, A I

2009-05-22

We report complete characterization of an optical memory based on electromagnetically induced transparency. We recover the superoperator associated with the memory, under two different working conditions, by means of a quantum process tomography technique that involves storage of coherent states and their characterization upon retrieval. In this way, we can predict the quantum state retrieved from the memory for any input, for example, the squeezed vacuum or the Fock state. We employ the acquired superoperator to verify the nonclassicality benchmark for the storage of a Gaussian distributed set of coherent states.

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

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.

A matter of emphasis: Linguistic stress habits modulate serial recall.

PubMed

Taylor, John C; Macken, Bill; Jones, Dylan M

2015-04-01

Models of short-term memory for sequential information rely on item-level, feature-based descriptions to account for errors in serial recall. Transposition errors within alternating similar/dissimilar letter sequences derive from interactions between overlapping features. However, in two experiments, we demonstrated that the characteristics of the sequence are what determine the fates of items, rather than the properties ascribed to the items themselves. Performance in alternating sequences is determined by the way that the sequences themselves induce particular prosodic rehearsal patterns, and not by the nature of the items per se. In a serial recall task, the shapes of the canonical "saw-tooth" serial position curves and transposition error probabilities at successive input-output distances were modulated by subvocal rehearsal strategies, despite all item-based parameters being held constant. We replicated this finding using nonalternating lists, thus demonstrating that transpositions are substantially influenced by prosodic features-such as stress-that emerge during subvocal rehearsal.

Parallel volume ray-casting for unstructured-grid data on distributed-memory architectures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ma, Kwan-Liu

1995-01-01

As computing technology continues to advance, computational modeling of scientific and engineering problems produces data of increasing complexity: large in size and unstructured in shape. Volume visualization of such data is a challenging problem. This paper proposes a distributed parallel solution that makes ray-casting volume rendering of unstructured-grid data practical. Both the data and the rendering process are distributed among processors. At each processor, ray-casting of local data is performed independent of the other processors. The global image composing processes, which require inter-processor communication, are overlapped with the local ray-casting processes to achieve maximum parallel efficiency. This algorithm differs from previous ones in four ways: it is completely distributed, less view-dependent, reasonably scalable, and flexible. Without using dynamic load balancing, test results on the Intel Paragon using from two to 128 processors show, on average, about 60% parallel efficiency.

Preface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lexcellent, C.; Patoor, E.

2004-06-01

This international conference was held between the 18 and the 23th may 2003, in the "Villa Clythia" belonging to the CAES of the french "Comité National de la Recherche Scientifique CNRS" at Fréjus (France). The scope of this EMMC7 conference was about the use of smart materials which permits the conception of some adaptive systems for industrial applications. A special attention was devoted to active and passive controls of damping in structures. The use of this new class of materials (shape memory alloys, piezoelectric ceramics, TRIP steels, ferromagnetic shape memory alloys, ...) implies the development of numerical tools for computer assisted design process. Complexity of the involved material behaviour requires a deep understanding of strain mechanisms (martensitic phase transformation, reorientation process of domains), the use of accurate experimental techniques and advanced modelling approaches at various scale (micro, meso, macroscopic). In this purpose, it is necessary to use some coupled calculations connecting different fields of physics such as thermal, electromagnetism, electricity and mechanics of materials ones. The conference topic gave the opportunity of fruitful discussions between the mechanics of materials communauty and the specialists of damping or passive control. The scientific program contains nine oral sessions and one poster session. - Experimental characterization of the shape memory alloys thermomechanical behavior (two sessions) - Modeling of the shape memory alloy thermomechanical behavior (two sessions) - Ferromagnetic shape memory alloys behavior (one session) - Piezoelectric ceramics behavior (one session) - Transformation induced plasticity steel behavior (one session) - Hybrid structures including smart materials as sensor or actuator (one session) - Adaptive structure for vibration control (one session) - Poster session. The conference programm contains 50 lectures. 57 scientists were present and come from 14 different countries: 20 from France, 7 from Germany, 6 from Italy, 4 from Russia, 4 from Finland and 5 from USA ... This scientific programm allows all the participants interesting exchanges on "the state of art" about smart materials and adaptive systems. In the aim of its publication in the Proceedings of the EMMC7 Conference (EDP Sciences "Journal de Physique IV") each paper was expertised by two reviewers belonging to the International Scientific Committee and also other specialists. On that occasion, we will thank them for their very important contribution of the scientific level quality of the Proceedings. We will also thank: the sponsors of the Conference: Délégation Générale aux Armements (DGA), le Ministère de la Recherche, l'Université de Metz, l'ENSAM, le CNRS, l'Association Française de Mécanique et l'Institut des Microtechniques de Franche-Comté, the members of the organizing committee, the MECAMAT committee for trusting us, EDP Sciences for the Proceedings, The "Villa Clythia" team for his nice help in the material organization, ... and all the participants. The Co-chairmen Christian LEXCELLENT et Étienne PATOOR

PCL-based Shape Memory Polymers with Variable PDMS Soft Segment Lengths

PubMed Central

Zhang, Dawei; Giese, Melissa L.; Prukop, Stacy L.; Grunlan, Melissa A.

2012-01-01

Thermoresponsive shape memory polymers (SMPs) are stimuli-responsive materials that return to their permanent shape from a temporary shape in response to heating. The design of new SMPs which obtain a broader range of properties including mechanical behavior is critical to realize their potential in biomedical as well as industrial and aerospace applications. To tailor the properties of SMPs, “AB networks” comprised of two distinct polymer components have been investigated but are overwhelmingly limited to those in which both components are organic. In this present work, we prepared inorganic-organic SMPs comprised of inorganic polydimethyl-siloxane (PDMS) segments of varying lengths and organic poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) segments. PDMS has a particularly low Tg (−125 °C) which makes it a particularly effective soft segment to tailor the mechanical properties of PCL-based SMPs. The SMPs were prepared via the rapid photocure of solutions of diacrylated PCL40-block-PDMSm-block-PCL40 macromers (m = 20, 37, 66 and 130). The resulting inorganic-organic SMP networks exhibited excellent shape fixity and recovery. By changing the PDMS segment length, the thermal, mechanical, and surface properties were systematically altered. PMID:22904597

The zebrafish world of colors and shapes: preference and discrimination.

PubMed

Oliveira, Jessica; Silveira, Mayara; Chacon, Diana; Luchiari, Ana

2015-04-01

Natural environment imposes many challenges to animals, which have to use cognitive abilities to cope with and exploit it to enhance their fitness. Since zebrafish is a well-established model for cognitive studies and high-throughput screening for drugs and diseases that affect cognition, we tested their ability for ambient color preference and 3D objects discrimination to establish a protocol for memory evaluation. For the color preference test, zebrafish were observed in a multiple-chamber tank with different environmental color options. Zebrafish showed preference for blue and green, and avoided yellow and red. For the 3D objects discrimination, zebrafish were allowed to explore two equal objects and then observed in a one-trial test in which a new color, size, or shape of the object was presented. Zebrafish showed discrimination for color, shape, and color+shape combined, but not size. These results imply that zebrafish seem to use some categorical system to discriminate items, and distracters affect their ability for discrimination. The type of variables available (color and shape) may favor zebrafish objects perception and facilitate discrimination processing. We suggest that this easy and simple memory test could serve as a useful screening tool for cognitive dysfunction and neurotoxicological studies.

Flytrap-inspired robot using structurally integrated actuation based on bistability and a developable surface.

PubMed

Kim, Seung-Won; Koh, Je-Sung; Lee, Jong-Gu; Ryu, Junghyun; Cho, Maenghyo; Cho, Kyu-Jin

2014-09-01

The Venus flytrap uses bistability, the structural characteristic of its leaf, to actuate the leaf's rapid closing motion for catching its prey. This paper presents a flytrap-inspired robot and novel actuation mechanism that exploits the structural characteristics of this structure and a developable surface. We focus on the concept of exploiting structural characteristics for actuation. Using shape memory alloy (SMA), the robot actuates artificial leaves made from asymmetrically laminated carbon fiber reinforced prepregs. We exploit two distinct structural characteristics of the leaves. First, the bistability acts as an implicit actuator enabling rapid morphing motion. Second, the developable surface has a kinematic constraint that constrains the curvature of the artificial leaf. Due to this constraint, the curved artificial leaf can be unbent by bending the straight edge orthogonal to the curve. The bending propagates from one edge to the entire surface and eventually generates an overall shape change. The curvature change of the artificial leaf is 18 m(-1) within 100 ms when closing. Experiments show that these actuation mechanisms facilitate the generation of a rapid and large morphing motion of the flytrap robot by one-way actuation of the SMA actuators at a local position.

On a novel self-regulating shape memory polymer composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Fei; Son, Seyul; Park, Kyungmook; Biggs, David; Andrews, Courtney; Mockensturm, Eric M.; Goulbourne, Nakhiah C.

2011-04-01

Polyurethane shape memory polymers (PU-SMPs) are active materials that can be transformed into complex shapes with the ability to recover their original shape even after undergoing large deformations. Because of their light weight, large recoverability, low cost, and high compliance, SMPs can be potentially employed as actuators, MEMS devices, temperature sensors, and damping elements to name a few. One of the key challenges in implementing SMPs is the response time which is limited by the method of heating and cooling and the material. Unlike shape memory alloys, SMPs can be activated by multiple stimuli including lasers, resistive heating, electric fields, and magnetic fields. While these methods may provide an efficient way of heating the SMP, they rely on the slow process of passive conduction for cooling. In this paper, a self regulating SMP (SR-SMP) composite is introduced, whereby a novel heating and cooling system consisting of embedded silica capillary tubes in the SMP (DiAPLEX® MP4510: SMP Technologies, Inc.) has been developed. The tubes are used to pump hot/cold fluid through the SMP membrane and hence provide a local temperature source. In order to show the effectiveness and efficiency of the mechanism, the thermomechanical response of the SR-SMP is compared experimentally to a SMP with "conventional" i.e. global heating and cooling mechanisms. It is shown that the SR-SMP has a faster thermomechanical response. It has been demonstrated previously that soft SMPs can be controlled by an electric field while in the rubbery phase, thus taking advantage of the Maxwell stress or electrostatic stress effect. Thermomechanical characterization of PU-SMPs is described for different weight percentages of resin (Diphenylmethane-4, 4'-diisocyanate) and hardener (1,4-Butanediol). Varying the percent hardener reduced the effective cross-link density of the polymer and hence the thermomechanical properties. The electromechanical response of pure SMP and SR-SMP is predicted numerically. The numerical computation indicates that the softer SMPs (resin:hardener = 5:4, 8:7, and 9:8) could be used as electroactive polymers.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

Short-term memory and dual task performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Regan, J. E.

1982-01-01

Two hypotheses concerning the way in which short-term memory interacts with another task in a dual task situation are considered. It is noted that when two tasks are combined, the activity of controlling and organizing performance on both tasks simultaneously may compete with either task for a resource; this resource may be space in a central mechanism or general processing capacity or it may be some task-specific resource. If a special relationship exists between short-term memory and control, especially if there is an identity relationship between short-term and a central controlling mechanism, then short-term memory performance should show a decrement in a dual task situation. Even if short-term memory does not have any particular identity with a controlling mechanism, but both tasks draw on some common resource or resources, then a tradeoff between the two tasks in allocating resources is possible and could be reflected in performance. The persistent concurrence cost in memory performance in these experiments suggests that short-term memory may have a unique status in the information processing system.

On the Encoding of Panoramic Visual Scenes in Navigating Wood Ants.

PubMed

Buehlmann, Cornelia; Woodgate, Joseph L; Collett, Thomas S

2016-08-08

A natural visual panorama is a complex stimulus formed of many component shapes. It gives an animal a sense of place and supplies guiding signals for controlling the animal's direction of travel [1]. Insects with their economical neural processing [2] are good subjects for analyzing the encoding and memory of such scenes [3-5]. Honeybees [6] and ants [7, 8] foraging from their nest can follow habitual routes guided only by visual cues within a natural panorama. Here, we analyze the headings that ants adopt when a familiar panorama composed of two or three shapes is manipulated by removing a shape or by replacing training shapes with unfamiliar ones. We show that (1) ants recognize a component shape not only through its particular visual features, but also by its spatial relation to other shapes in the scene, and that (2) each segmented shape [9] contributes its own directional signal to generating the ant's chosen heading. We found earlier that ants trained to a feeder placed to one side of a single shape [10] and tested with shapes of different widths learn the retinal position of the training shape's center of mass (CoM) [11, 12] when heading toward the feeder. They then guide themselves by placing the shape's CoM in the remembered retinal position [10]. This use of CoM in a one-shape panorama combined with the results here suggests that the ants' memory of a multi-shape panorama comprises the retinal positions of the horizontal CoMs of each major component shape within the scene, bolstered by local descriptors of that shape. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A simplified constitutive model for predicting shape memory polymers deformation behavior

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yunxin; Guo, Siu-Siu; He, Yuhao; Liu, Zishun

2015-12-01

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) can keep a temporary shape after pre-deformation at a higher temperature and subsequent cooling. When they are reheated, their original shapes can be recovered. Such special characteristics of SMPs make them widely used in aerospace structures, biomedical devices, functional textiles and other devices. Increasing usefulness of SMPs motivates us to further understand their thermomechanical properties and deformation behavior, of which the development of appropriate constitutive models for SMPs is imperative. There is much work in literatures that address constitutive models of the thermo-mechanical coupling in SMPs. However, due to their complex forms, it is difficult to apply these constitutive models in the real world. In this paper, a three-element model with simple form is proposed to investigate the thermo-mechanical small strain (within 10%) behavior of polyurethane under uniaxial tension. Two different cases of heated recovery are considered: (1) unconstrained free strain recovery and (2) stress recovery under full constraint at a strain level fixed during low temperature unloading. To validate the model, simulated and predicted results are compared with Tobushi's experimental results and good agreement can be observed.

Micromirror structure based on TiNi shape memory thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, Yong Qing; Hu, Min; Du, Hejun; Luo, Jack; Flewitt, Andrew J.; Milne, William I.

2005-02-01

TiNi films were deposited on silicon by co-sputtering TiNi target and a separate Ti target at a temperature of 450°C. Results from differential scanning calorimeter, in-situ X-ray diffraction and curvature measurement revealed clearly martensitic transformation upon heating and cooling. Two types of TiNi/Si optical micromirror structures with a Si mirror cap (20 micron thick) and TiNi/Si actuation beams were designed and fabricated. For the first design, three elbow shaped Si beams with TiNi electrodes were used as the arms to actuate the mirror. In the second design, a V-shaped cantilever based on TiNi/Si bimorph beams was used as the actuation mechanism for micromirror. TiNi electrodes were patterned and wet-etched in a solutions of HF:HNO3:H2O (1:1:20) with an etch rate of 0.6 μm/min. The TiNi/Si microbeams were flat at room temperature, and bent up with applying voltage in TiNi electrodes (due to phase transformation and shape memory effect), thus causing the changes in angles of micromirror.

Effects of fiber pre-strain on the healing efficiency of thermoset polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ajisafe, Oludayo

One major challenge that has been facing material self healing is how to heal bigger macroscopic or structural scale damage autonomously, repeatedly, efficiently and at molecular length scale. Different approaches have been used to heal materials. However, none of them can heal macroscopic cracks. Our research group has proposed a novel shape-memory polymer (SMP) based, bio-inspired Close-Then-Heal (CTH) scheme to heal macroscopic cracks in SMP matrix. The most recent development in our group is to use SMP fibers to heal conventional thermosetting polymers according to the CTH scheme. The aim of this study is to further investigate the effect of pre-tension of SMP fibers during the cold-drawing programming on the self-healing efficiency of the conventional thermosetting polymer composites. This was done by fabricating a composite with thermoplastic particles (polycaprolactone) dispersed in a thermosetting polymer matrix (Epon 828). Shape memory fiber pre-tensioned into 3 different groups of 0%, 50% and 100% prestrain, was also embedded into the composite in the longitudinal direction. In this composite, the shape memory effect of the shape memory fibers is utilized for sealing (closing) the cracks and the thermoplastic particles are used for molecular-length scale healing. In this study, 7% by volume of thermoplastic particles was used. Beam specimens were prepared and controlled structural length scale damage was created prior to curing by inserting an aluminum foil of designed thickness in a perpendicular direction to the shape memory fibers before the matrix was allowed to cure. The aluminum sheet was removed post cure to leave a controlled damage. The specimen was healed by fixing the two ends of the beam and heating the sample above the Tg of the shape memory fiber. The recovery force of the sample was recorded and then the beam was tested again to fracture. This fracture healing cycle lasted 7 times. The healing efficiency was evaluated per the peak-tensile load. The Ultrasonic C-scan and SEM were used to examine the healed cracks. It was found that the beams with 100% pre-strained fiber were able to recover repeatedly about 50% of its peak tensile strength; the beams with 50% pre-strained fiber, 43%; and the beams with un-stretched fibers were able to recover about 21% of its original peak tensile strength. Also it was found that the higher the pre-tension the higher the recovery stress seen during the healing cycle.

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

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.

A new application of Fe-28Mn-6Si-5Cr (mass%) shape memory alloy, for self-adjustable axial preloading of ball bearings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paleu, V.; Gurău, G.; Comăneci, R. I.; Sampath, V.; Gurău, C.; Bujoreanu, L. G.

2018-07-01

A new application of Fe-Mn-Si based shape memory alloys (SMAs) was developed under the form of truncated cone-shaped module, for self-adaptive axial preload control in angular contact bearings. The modules were processed by high-speed high-pressure torsion (HS-HPT), from circular crowns cut from axially drilled ingots of Fe-28Mn-6Si-9Cr (mass%) SMA. The specimens were mechanically tested in the hot rolled state, prior to HS-HPT processing, demonstrating free-recovery shape memory effect (SME) and high values for ultimate tensile stress and strain as well as low cycle fatigue life. The HS-HPT modules were subjected to static loading–unloading compression, without/with lubrication at specimen-tool interface, both individually and in different coupling modes. Dry compression cycles revealed reproducible stress plateaus both during loading and unloading stages, being associated with hardness gradient, along cone generator, caused by HS-HPT processing. Constrained recovery tests, performed using compressed modules, emphasized the continuous generation of stress during heating, by one way SME, at a rate of ∼9.3 kPa/%. Dynamic compression tests demonstrated the capability of modules to develop closed stress–strain loops after 50 000 cycles, without visible signs of fatigue. HS-HPT caused the fragmentation of crystalline grains, while compression cycles enabled the formation of ε hexagonal close-packed stress-induced martensite (ε), which is characterized by a high density of stacking faults. Using an experimental setup, specifically designed and manufactured for this purpose, both feasibility and functionality tests were performed using HS-HPT modules. The feasibility tests proved the existence of a general tendency of both axial force and friction torque to increase in time, favoured by the increase of initial preloading force and the augmentation of rotation speed. Functionality tests, performed on two pairs of HS-HPT modules fastened in base-to-base coupling mode, demonstrated the capacity of modules to accommodate high preloads while maintaining both axial force and friction torque at constant values in time. These preliminary results suggest that, for the time being, the modules can operate only as single use applications, more effective during the running-in period. This bevahior recommends HS-HPT modules as a new application of Fe-Mn-Si SMAs, with the potential to be used for the development of new temperature-responsive compression displacement systems.

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.

Note: A component-level frequency tunable isolator for vibration-sensitive chips using SMA beams.

PubMed

Zhang, Xiaoyong; Ding, Xin; Wu, Di; Qi, Junlei; Wang, Ruixin; Lu, Siwei; Yan, Xiaojun

2016-06-01

This note presents a component-level frequency tunable isolator for vibration-sensitive chips. The isolator employed 8 U-shaped shape memory alloy (SMA) beams to support an isolation island (used for mounting chips). Due to the temperature-induced Young's modulus variation of SMA, the system stiffness of the isolator can be controlled through heating the SMA beams. In such a way, the natural frequency of the isolator can be tuned. A prototype was fabricated to evaluate the concept. The test results show that the natural frequency of the isolator can be tuned in the range of 64 Hz-97 Hz by applying different heating strategies. Moreover, resonant vibration can be suppressed significantly (the transmissibility decreases about 65% near the resonant frequency) using a real-time tuning method.

Task modulates functional connectivity networks in free viewing behavior.

PubMed

Seidkhani, Hossein; Nikolaev, Andrey R; Meghanathan, Radha Nila; Pezeshk, Hamid; Masoudi-Nejad, Ali; van Leeuwen, Cees

2017-10-01

In free visual exploration, eye-movement is immediately followed by dynamic reconfiguration of brain functional connectivity. We studied the task-dependency of this process in a combined visual search-change detection experiment. Participants viewed two (nearly) same displays in succession. First time they had to find and remember multiple targets among distractors, so the ongoing task involved memory encoding. Second time they had to determine if a target had changed in orientation, so the ongoing task involved memory retrieval. From multichannel EEG recorded during 200 ms intervals time-locked to fixation onsets, we estimated the functional connectivity using a weighted phase lag index at the frequencies of theta, alpha, and beta bands, and derived global and local measures of the functional connectivity graphs. We found differences between both memory task conditions for several network measures, such as mean path length, radius, diameter, closeness and eccentricity, mainly in the alpha band. Both the local and the global measures indicated that encoding involved a more segregated mode of operation than retrieval. These differences arose immediately after fixation onset and persisted for the entire duration of the lambda complex, an evoked potential commonly associated with early visual perception. We concluded that encoding and retrieval differentially shape network configurations involved in early visual perception, affecting the way the visual input is processed at each fixation. These findings demonstrate that task requirements dynamically control the functional connectivity networks involved in early visual perception. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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.

Monuments of memory: defensive mechanisms of the collective psyche and their manifestation in the memorialization process.

PubMed

Kalinowska, Malgorzata

2012-09-01

The paper searches for insight in the area of collective memory as a part of collective consciousness, a phenomenon understood as a stabilizing factor for a society's self-image and identity. Collective memories are seen as originating from shared communications transmitting and creating the meaning of the past in the form of narrative, symbols and signs. As such, they contain the individual, embodied and lived side of our relations to the past. As well as the identity-building and meaning-making functions of collective memories, their defensive function is discussed with a focus on commemorative practices taking place in a transitional space between psychic and social life. Fears of a lack of collective identity and coherence have contributed to the way Polish commemorative practices have been shaped. This is considered in relation to the Smolensk catastrophe in 2010, viewed in the context of the Jungian concept of the collective psyche and the psychoanalytical understanding of defensive group mechanisms against trauma, especially those relating to loss and mourning. It leads to a consideration of how historical experiences and the experience of history can be accessed, as well as their meaning for individual and group development. © 2012, The Society of Analytical Psychology.

Social Relevance Enhances Memory for Impressions in Older Adults

PubMed Central

Cassidy, Brittany S.; Gutchess, Angela H.

2012-01-01

Previous research has demonstrated that older adults have difficulty retrieving contextual material over items alone. Recent research suggests this deficit can be reduced by adding emotional context, allowing for the possibility that memory for social impressions may show less age-related decline than memory for other types of contextual information. Two studies investigated how orienting to social or self-relevant aspects of information contributed to the learning and retrieval of impressions in young and older adults. Participants encoded impressions of others in conditions varying in the use of self-reference (Experiment 1) and interpersonal meaningfulness (Experiment 2), and completed memory tasks requiring the retrieval of specific traits. For both experiments, age groups remembered similar numbers of impressions. In Experiment 1, using more self-relevant encoding contexts increased memory for impressions over orienting to stimuli in a non-social way, regardless of age. In Experiment 2, older adults had enhanced memory for impressions presented in an interpersonally meaningful relative to a personally irrelevant way, whereas young adults were unaffected by this manipulation. The results provide evidence that increasing social relevance ameliorates age differences in memory for impressions, and enhances older adults’ ability to successfully retrieve contextual information. PMID:22364168

Social relevance enhances memory for impressions in older adults.

PubMed

Cassidy, Brittany S; Gutchess, Angela H

2012-01-01

Previous research has demonstrated that older adults have difficulty retrieving contextual material over items alone. Recent research suggests this deficit can be reduced by adding emotional context, allowing for the possibility that memory for social impressions may show less age-related decline than memory for other types of contextual information. Two studies investigated how orienting to social or self-relevant aspects of information contributed to the learning and retrieval of impressions in young and older adults. Participants encoded impressions of others in conditions varying in the use of self-reference (Experiment 1) and interpersonal meaningfulness (Experiment 2), and completed memory tasks requiring the retrieval of specific traits. For both experiments, age groups remembered similar numbers of impressions. In Experiment 1 using more self-relevant encoding contexts increased memory for impressions over orienting to stimuli in a non-social way, regardless of age. In Experiment 2 older adults had enhanced memory for impressions presented in an interpersonally meaningful relative to a personally irrelevant way, whereas young adults were unaffected by this manipulation. The results provide evidence that increasing social relevance ameliorates age differences in memory for impressions, and enhances older adults' ability to successfully retrieve contextual information.

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

Feature bindings endure without attention: evidence from an explicit recall task.

PubMed

Gajewski, Daniel A; Brockmole, James R

2006-08-01

Are integrated objects the unit of capacity of visual working memory, or is continued attention needed to maintain bindings between independently stored features? In a delayed recall task, participants reported the color and shape of a probed item from a memory array. During the delay, attention was manipulated with an exogenous cue. Recall was elevated at validly cued positions, indicating that the cue affected item memory. On invalid trials, participants most frequently recalled either both features (perfect object memory) or neither of the two features (no object memory); the frequency with which only one feature was recalled was significantly lower than predicted by feature independence as determined in a single-feature recall task. These data do not support the view that features are remembered independently when attention is withdrawn. Instead, integrated objects are stored in visual working memory without need for continued attention.

The restless engram: consolidations never end.

PubMed

Dudai, Yadin

2012-01-01

Memory consolidation is the hypothetical process in which an item in memory is transformed into a long-term form. It is commonly addressed at two complementary levels of description and analysis: the cellular/synaptic level (synaptic consolidation) and the brain systems level (systems consolidation). This article focuses on selected recent advances in consolidation research, including the reconsolidation of long-term memory items, the brain mechanisms of transformation of the content and of cue-dependency of memory items over time, as well as the role of rest and sleep in consolidating and shaping memories. Taken together, the picture that emerges is of dynamic engrams that are formed, modified, and remodified over time at the systems level by using synaptic consolidation mechanisms as subroutines. This implies that, contrary to interpretations that have dominated neuroscience for a while, but similar to long-standing cognitive concepts, consolidation of at least some items in long-term memory may never really come to an end.

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.