Clevertex - Grado Zero Espace Srl
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Clevertex - Grado Zero Espace Srl
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2.5.2.2 Patents published<br />
The Japanese company Mitsubishi Jukogyo succeeded to produce fibres from shape memory<br />
polymers. The polymer is a polyurethane elastomer with a glass transition temperature of about 40°C.<br />
Yarn is either produced by spinning of pure fibres or by mixing with other fibres. The yarns are then<br />
being woven. The fabric gets a certain shape at a temperature lower than the glass transition<br />
temperature. Heating the fabric beyond that temperature, it obtains another shape. In that shape, it is<br />
cooled down its glass transition temperature. When the woven is reheated beyond the glass transition<br />
temperature, it will regain its original shape (US 5128197).<br />
Philips invented a pocket, suitable for incorporation in garments or luggage, which prevents any items<br />
held in the pockets from falling out inadvertently. For this purpose they used a shape memory alloy<br />
that contracts and thus performs a closing action of the pocket opening when it is heated (US<br />
6834797).<br />
Further, Philips utilizes shape memory alloys for tactile feedback devices. The devices consist of an<br />
elastic body to which a shape memory alloy is attached. When applying power to the system, the<br />
shape memory alloy assumes a shape that causes a tactile feedback to the user (Us 2003/0181116).<br />
2.5.3 Applications in the interior textile sector<br />
2.5.3.1 Research projects and products<br />
Gels<br />
Matresses: The patented Lever Support System is an exclusive technology developed and tested by<br />
Strobel Technologies<br />
2.5.3.2 Patents published<br />
2.5.4 Applications in the technical textile sector<br />
2.5.4.1 Research projects and products<br />
Alloys<br />
Shape memory alloys are used in different surgical implants including stents. For example they are<br />
used in the field of orthodontics, where enabling braces are inserted more easily before tightening in<br />
situ.<br />
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