Development and application of shape memory ceramic actuators

Shape memory unimorph actuators have been trial manufactured using lead-zirconate-based antiferroelectric ceramics. The unimorph structure requires slightly larger Ti concentration than the simple disk, to obtain the shape memory effect. This is probably due to the compressive stress generated in the unimorph structure. The dynamic response has also been investigated in the shape memory unimorph. Only an electric field pulse with a short period of 5 ms is necessary to drive the unimorph, which gives advantages in control over conventional piezoelectric actuators. The shape memory unimorph has been applied to a latching relay. The size of the latching relay can be reduced considerably by using the shape memory unimorph, in comparison with the conventional electromagnetic latching relay