Active material node based reconfigurable structures

Details Active material node based reconfigurable structures Active material node based reconfigurable structures

2006-02-17

2009-12-29

Dougherty, Thomas M (Department: 2837)

Electrical generator or motor structure

Non-dynamoelectric

Thermal or pyromagnetic

C310S311000, C310S328000

Reexamination Certificate

active

07638921

ABSTRACT:
Reconfigurable structures include at least one hub, a plurality of arms attached to and extending from the at least one hub, wherein at least a portion of the arm and/or hub defines a node and is formed of an active material. The active material is adapted to change at least one attribute in response to an activation signal, wherein the change in the at least one attribute changes a modulus property, a shape orientation, or a combination of the modulus property change and the shape orientation change to the active material portion. The plurality of arms and at least one hub can form a reconfigurable opening for attaching and releasing a member. Alternatively, the plurality of arms and/or hub can further include a connector for attaching an additional structure. Also disclosed herein are methods for selectively reconfiguring a structure.

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Notification of Transmittal of the International Search Report and the Written Opinion of the International Searching Authority, or the Declaration, mailing date Oct. 2, 2007.

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