THERMOELECTRIC ACTUATOR FOR SLIDING DOORS OF LAND-BASED VEHICLES Russian patent published in 1998 - IPC

FIELD: actuators and miscellaneous driving facilities. SUBSTANCE: actuator has rectangular-section, double-walled case with its external walls being made of metal and internal ones, of solid heat-resistant material provided with longitudinal guide slots. Through holes are made on top and bottom walls of case to admit and discharge coolants and lubricants. Case accommodates power member which is, essentially, double strip made of material possessing heat- induced plasticity which is bent in wave-like manner through its length and has a number of symmetric waves. Heat-resistant insulating gasket is fitted between inner sides of strip; placed at point of intersection between vertical sections of strip and its longitudinal horizontal axis are guide members whose journals enter guide slots. Case also accommodates movable member with rod. Rod extension protrudes from case and is hinged through eye to sliding doors. Hinge formed by double strip and gasket is installed on opposite side of movable member; opposite ends of strip form terminal leads for connecting to electric circuit. When in operation, electric circuit closes, power member heats up and acquires stretched zigzag form. Guides displace together with strip retaining longitudinal stability of strip and preventing its sag and displacement from center of device. Movable member moves together with its rod to the right and opens vehicle door for the period of its stopping. As soon as vehicle is started, electric circuit opens and power member cools down to low temperature due to cold-induced plasticity also incorporated in its material with the result that it returns to initial position; in the action, rod moves to the left and closes sliding doors. EFFECT: improved engineering and economic efficiency. 6 dwg