Designing shape memory alloy linear actuators: A review

Abstract

In numerous studies, it was emphasised that only a few of patented shape memory alloy applications are commercially successful due to material limitations combined with a lack of material and design knowledge and associated tools. This work further emphasises that these limitations may be improved or even resolved with proper design approaches and techniques; thus, the functionality and the reliability of shape memory alloy actuators could be realised and optimised. A brief review of the recent progress and development in optimising shape memory alloy linear actuator with different design methods, techniques and/or approaches are presented and discussed in this review.