A new robot SMA bearing's gripper

Shape memory alloy (SMA) is a new functional material. SMA actuator can replace conventional actuator (such as motor, air and hydraulic cylinder) in some cases. In this paper, based on experiments on mechanical properties and electric resistance of SMA coil spring, a differential type SMA bearing gripper is presented which is compact, light and easily operated. Specially, the cooling system can be omitted and heating device can be controlled by hand or computer. After the experiment of assembling bearing online with SCARA robot is finished, the gripper has been applied to a fan motor automatic assembly line.<
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