Nitinol Foam Connectors
We are announcing a breakthrough, patented technology that radically changes how Nitinol actuators are connected to structures.
Mechanically attaching Nitinol Actuators(wire, tube, sheet or foil) to a structure can be difficult, especially if the forces are large.
Shape Change Technologies solves this problem for you by offering Nitinol wire or wire bundles that are terminated with a Nitinol foam, providing a simple, reliable mechanical integration of your actuator.
The net-shape foaming process welds the foam to your wire, providing a strong, robust, yet simple connector that allows for customization of the connector to suit your application. Some examples are shown above and below.
Multiwire Nitinol bundles can generate large amounts of force, but now can be connected in a simple fashion to a structure. In addition, multiwire connections allow for Nitinol wires of differing transition temperatures to be effectively integrated into a bundle, allowing for customized thermal response.
Shape Change has demonstrated the following actuator terminations:
- Nitinol Shape Memory wire diameters from 0.001" to 0.020"
- Nitinol Superelastic wire diameters (0.010")
- Nitinol Foil
- Nitinol Tubing
In addition, we can pot the foam connector in Polyurethane, Epoxy and Silicone to provide electrical isolation of the connector. We offer a choice of colors for any resins that are required, allowing for simple marking.
Both screws holes and thru-holes are possible.
Contact engineering using the contact form or contact@shapechange.com to discuss your actuator termination requirements.