Wire Materials Flex Like Human Muscle

Touting characteristics including shape memory and super elasticity, the Nitinol family of intermetallic materials reportedly enable assemblies to actually flex like human muscles when electrically driven. The assembly changes its internal structure at certain temperatures and returns to its original shape when current flow ceases. The materials contain near equal mixtures of nickel and titanium, with other elements included to adjust material properties for specific applications. For applications such as micro latches for opening secure cabinets, an automated process that splices clip-on tabs to the muscle wire attaches the tabs to pins on the printed circuit board. Other material features include light weight, low cost, and ease of use. AUTOSPLICE INC., San Diego, CA. (858) 535-0077.