Visual Basic Applications for Shape Memory Elements Design used in Intelligent Systems

The paper presents the design strategies for two typical configurations of intelligent systems, using as active elements the Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) cantilever strip and the SMA helical spring. Based on the advantages and unique properties of shape memory alloys the authors defined the operating mode, the mechanical considerations and the design assumptions for these two examples. It also includes the experimental results of thermal analysis in order to determine the transformation temperatures for studied SMA elements. A comprehensive graphical interface, which runs under Visual Basic environment, has been developed for each design strategy. Each one provides a user friendly environment that allows intelligent system parameters configuration as well as the choice of the most adapted analysis methods and data displaying. At this moment, these two Visual Basic applications are used for engineering purposes as well