Design and optimization of the cooling process to rapid control a SMA-based wave generator

The paper presents results obtained for the cooling process of a new-designed SMA-based wave generator (SMA-WG), which represents the deforming component of a harmonic drive. SMA-WG is driven by two-way SMA elements and, due to this, it does not require a driving motor. Correct SMA-WG operation supposes a simulated rotational ellipse performed by SMA elements, which is achieved by a cyclical control of temperature. SMA heating is electrically controlled, but for rapid cooling, a forced air flow is aimed. Therefore, SMA-WG design must involve special characteristics determined by numerical flow simulation.