Multifield coupled analysis for a harmonic movable tooth drive system integrated with shape memory alloys

Abstract

• A harmonic movable tooth drive system integrated with shape memory alloys is proposed. • The multifield coupled model of the drive system is given. • Forces and output torque of the drive system under pulsed current are investigated. In this article, a harmonic movable tooth drive system integrated with shape memory alloys is proposed. The key of the system is to integrate the shape memory alloy drive principle with the harmonic movable tooth drive principle by which a small size and a large output torque can be achieved simultaneously. Here the structure of the drive system is determined, and its operating principle is illustrated. The output torque equation for the drive is deduced and coupled dynamics equations for the system are given. With use of these equations, the forces applied to the wave generator and the output torque of the drive system under pulsed current are investigated. The results show that with reasonable pulsed current parameters, a large and steady output torque can be obtained.