Simultaneous measurements for the interlink of electro-thermo-mechano-electro characteristics in shape memory springs

This experimental study aimed to obtain the actuation properties of Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) spring actuators available under the commercial names of Biometal® NiTiCu and KRL® NiTi NiTiCu, NiTiFe. An objective is to characterize the electro-thermo-mechano-electro behavior of shape memory spring through experimentation via simultaneous measurement techniques. These measurements are synchronized by embedding an impedance analyzer and data acquisition module through a unique program. Moreover, to obtain the mathematical model by parts of the SMA spring and equivalent circuit analysis of active spring through their electro-thermo-mechano-electro characteristics exhibited during shape memory effect. Based on the experimental results, the SMA spring's equivalent circuit is considered a series resistance - inductance circuit. It was found from the experimental results that the Biometal® actuator produced more resistance, inductance variation and offered more displacement as compared to KRL® actuators.