Sensors have already impressively demonstrated the possibilities of miniaturization in recent years. However, we face major challenges when it comes to miniaturizing movement. Previous technologies are reaching their physical limits. memetis is actively addressing these limits.
Intelligent materials - the so-called shape memory alloys (SMA) - are used in our actuators. These are metallic alloys which, after deformation, seem to "remember" their original shape and restore it independently. With this shape memory effect, great forces are released and great distances are covered. We use these properties specifically to manufacture high-performance actuators with unsurpassed working density in a compact format.
Continuing major challenges for further miniaturization in limited quantities show the limits of conventional actuator technologies. Various challenges can currently be observed in the field of MEMS (micro-electromechanical systems): Adaptability to new applications, continuous miniaturization and an increased degree of "intelligence" (i.e. complexity, range of functions). These challenges are completely addressed by memetis SMA microactors and clearly distinguish the memetis offer from the competition.
The specific advantages of film-based SMA actuators are a simple, highly adaptable design, a robust operating principle (electrical resistance heating), silent operation and very high working densities compared to other actuator technologies. Shape memory alloys also offer advantages in terms of biocompatibility. By using foils instead of wires, the additional advantages are a large surface-to-volume ratio (short switching times independent of actuator force) and the feasibility of complex structures (combination of several or multi-dimensional actuators in a single component). As a result of current research, fatigue-free materials with significantly increased operating times (> 100 million switching cycles) are now available.
Smart Materials such as SMA allow targeted and intelligent actuators in corresponding systems by means of corresponding control electronics and software. This means that the actuators can be networked to a greater extent, and this is the aim.
With memetis actuators, our customers receive a completely new type of actuation for integration into their own product range. This actuation usually brings various advantages, which, however, depend strongly on the context of the intended application. memetis offers its customers an actuation which is characterized by clear strengths.
Nowadays, different types of actuation, i.e. autonomous movement through technical components, are to be implemented in a multitude of applications. But the mere implementation of motion does not meet the demands of today's industries. Movement must be implemented in the smallest possible space with the greatest possible force and distance. The application possibilities are far from exhausted.
memetis actuators' fields of application are diverse.
The aim is to convey as concrete a picture of the possibilities as possible.
Let us discuss applications in your industry.
Coupling closed - martensite (low temperature phase)
The actuator (blue) is not heated and is fully deflected by the force of a return spring. The coupling is closed.
Coupling closed - martensite (low temperature phase)
The actuator (blue) is not heated and is fully deflected by the force of a return spring. The coupling is closed.
Coupling closed - martensite (low temperature phase)
The actuator (blue) is not heated and is fully deflected by the force of a return spring. The coupling is closed.
Coupling opens - Phase transformation
The actuator is now increasingly heated. The alloy transforms into its memory form and builds up a counterforce to the return spring.
Coupling opens - Phase transformation
The actuator is now increasingly heated. The alloy transforms into its memory form and builds up a counterforce to the return spring.
Coupling opens - Phase transformation
The actuator is now increasingly heated. The alloy transforms into its memory form and builds up a counterforce to the return spring.
Coupling open - austenite (high temperature phase)
Actuator (red) is now sufficiently heated and realizes sufficient power to fully open the coupling. A smooth coupling is now possible.
Coupling open - austenite (high temperature phase)
Actuator (red) is now sufficiently heated and realizes sufficient power to fully open the coupling. A smooth coupling is now possible.
Coupling open - austenite (high temperature phase)
Actuator (red) is now sufficiently heated and realizes sufficient power to fully open the coupling. A smooth coupling is now possible.
Coupling open - austenite (high temperature phase)
Actuator (red) is now sufficiently heated and realizes sufficient power to fully open the coupling. A smooth coupling is now possible.
The long-established German company Gebr. Märklin & Cie. GmbH is known worldwide for its model railways and is market leader in the European model railway industry. memetis supports this with its ultra-compact linear actuators for "even more authentic movement in the smallest space".
As the European market leader in the model railway industry, Märklin also pursues the goal of innovation leadership in relevant markets. The aim is to continuously increase the functionality of the detailed Märklin models while keeping an eye on authenticity. This enables an even better customer experience and a strong positioning in the market.
The attractiveness of the Märklin models can be enhanced by additional physical functions, such as those offered by the new telex coupling. In most cases, only very limited installation space is available, which additionally competes with the complex model electronics or other drives. This requires an actuator solution that allows controllable movement with relatively large travel and forces at minimum dimensions.
memetis manufactures a linear actuator that meets the requirements of Märklin: Large forces and travel ranges with the smallest possible dimensions. In addition, more realistic movement and slim design are guaranteed.
"We build the best model locomotives in large series and convey the prestige of the brand through value - this also means that we [...] shift the boundaries of miniaturization to achieve a higher degree of miniaturization. [...] This category also includes the slimming down of the telex coupling by a miniature actuator."