Industrial Consultancy & Sponsored Research (IC&SR) , IIT Madras
Segment Actuated Shape Memory Alloy Based Smart Flexible Manipulator
Categories for this Invention
Category- Miniature ROV Manipulators, Robotics & Automation
Applications – Precision Remote Operated Vehicles (ROVs), Smart Actuation Systems
Industry– Oil and Gas. Environmental Monitoring, Underwater Construction, Maritime and Naval Defense.
Market – Global observation mini ROV market size was USD 72.43 million in 2021 and the market is projected to touch USD 263.26 million by 2032 at a CAGR of 12.45%.
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Problem Statement
- Underwater ROVs face significant challenges in stability and control due to the complex interactions between the manipulator and the ROV, compounded by buoyancy, fluid pressure, wave interactions, and drag forces.
- Conventional manipulators are too large and heavy to be effectively used on miniature ROVs, limiting their applicability in confined underwater environments.
- Traditional electric motor and hydraulic actuators are unsuitable for small ROVs due to their size and weight, while flexible manipulators, though lighter, still pose installation challenges.
Technology
The present invention relates to the field of compliant robotic manipulators. In particular, it relates to smart and flexible manipulators based on shape memory alloys.
Smart Material-Based Manipulator:
- The invention introduces a light-weight manipulator for small ROVs, utilizing shape memory alloy (SMA) wires to reduce fluid interaction and enhance control and stability.
Flexible and Independent Actuation:
- The SMA-based manipulator features segmented actuation coils that allow different segments of the manipulator to change shape independently, improving maneuverability and precision.
Two-Way Shape Memory Effect:
- The SMA wires provide a two-way shape memory effect, enabling the manipulator to alternate between two shapes based on temperature changes, facilitating diverse manipulation tasks without the need for fixed support structures.
Key Features / Value Proposition
Enhanced Precision and Control
- Independent segment-wise actuation of the SMA wire ensures precise and stable manipulator movements.
Lightweight Design
- The SMA-based manipulator weighs less than 100 grams, ideal for small observation class ROVs without needing support structures.
Versatile Shape Memory Effect
- The two-way shape memory effect allows the manipulator to switch between predefined shapes for diverse tasks.
Increased Reachability
- Segmented design allows the manipulator to reach 2n positions, enhancing operational flexibility and range.
Simplified Actuation
- Electric current-based actuation simplifies the control mechanism compared to traditional motor or hydraulic systems.
Scalable Solution
- Increasing the number of segments significantly multiplies the reachable points without adding weight or complexity.
Questions about this Technology?
Contact For Licensing
sm-marketing@imail.iitm.ac.in
ipoffice2@iitm.ac.in
Research Lab
Prof. Prabhu Rajagopal,
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Intellectual Property
- IITM IDF Ref. 1962
- IN 495614 – Patent Granted
Technology Readiness Level
TRL – 3
Proof of concept stage.