Response of Proportional Valve Using Shape-Memory-Alloy Array Actuators

Abstract To realize a small size proportional valve with simple structure, a spool driving actuator using shape memory alloy (SMA) fine wires in arrayed arrangement is proposed and the response is investigated, Firstly, the basic characteristics of the actuator are stated. Secondly, a proportional valve is fabricated and tested with constant cooling oil flow velocity. Then, for practical forced oil-cooling using return flow, a robust control method using a disturbance observer is applied and the practical band width of 50Hz is realized independent of the cooling oil flow velocity and the amplitude of the input signal.