Part 3/11:
He shares his meticulous process of devising a mechanism that leverages Nitinol’s properties—a device involving springs, rods, pivots, and a ball-and-slot joint. The goal is to create a system where parts can open and close, rocking back and forth, driven by the constriction and expansion of Nitinol wire.
Paul demonstrates his approach by incorporating a ball inside a ball and experimenting with a slot milled at a 45-degree angle, which works as a hinge of sorts. The design involves a rod held atop a pivot that allows movement, intending to trigger a change in shape or position via temperature-induced Nitinol contraction.