抄録
This paper reports an artificial urethral valve using a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator which is driven by a close-looped transcutaneous energy transmission system to treat urinary incontinence. The transmission system is equipped with a temperature feedback circuit and controller to prevent the SMA actuator from being overheated during a prolonged urination. Laboratory experiments show that the developed energy transformer can successfully control the temperature of the SMA actuator to open the valve without excessive heating of the SMA actuator. Animal experiments show that the valve system works well as a substitute for urethral sphincter in controlling the discharge of urine.
