Innovation. Actuators. Sensors.
Thermomechanical Simulation of Shape Memory Alloys Using the Finite-Element-Method Overview of Material Models SMA respond to changes in temperature and load through phase transformations. Their reliable design requires simulation models that realistically represent the complex thermomechanical material behavior. The five…
On November 12, 2025, at 4:30 p.m., the "Production Engineering Talks" will take place at Fraunhofer IWU in Dresden. This year's theme is "From Research to Application: Processing Technologies for Shape Memory Alloys." We look forward to seeing you there!
Charging connectors using shape memory alloys (SMA) automatically increase the contact normal force as temperatures rise, thereby reducing contact resistance and heat loss. This lowers cooling requirements, boosts efficiency, and extends the service life of the connectors.
Lightweight, efficient, and safe means of transport are essential for both motor-powered and muscle-powered mobility. The 'SmartFrame+' project brings together experts from industry and research to develop innovative solutions that overcome this conflict of objectives. Discover how smart materials and new manufacturing technologies are revolutionizing mobility.
Shape memory alloys (SMA) are revolutionizing actuator technology: thanks to their extremely high energy density, they enable ultra-compact yet powerful drives. In the HochPerForm project, Fraunhofer IWU developed highly dynamic SMA short-stroke actuators (Ø 15mm x 16mm) that generate more than 5 kN of force despite their miniaturization – a performance that opens up entirely new applications.
