Device for Securely Holding Objects in Place

Abstract

A device utilizing the unique properties of shape memory materials to securely hold items of varying geometric shape and size securely in place is disclosed. This device and process works equally well for securely holding in place small items, such as would be stored in a cup holder, or for securely larger items in a cargo container. By deforming the shape memory material such that it conforms to the outer dimensions of the item to be held in place a secure and tight fit is assured.

1 . A device for securely holding at least one item in place comprising:
 a. pre-forming a material into a desired memory shape, said material comprising a shape memory material and attaching said shape memory material to a rigid structure or frame, wherein said structure or frame and said shape memory material can be of similar or different and varying geometric shapes and sizes;   b. activating said shape memory material such that said shape memory material becomes soft;   c. deforming said shape memory material into a shape adapted for holding said item in securely in place; and   d. de-activating said shape memory material while maintaining said shape memory material in its deformed state such that said item is held in place by the deformed shape memory material.   
   
   
       2 . The device of  claim 1  where said shape memory material is shape memory polymer. 
   
   
       3 . The device of  claim 2  wherein said shape memory material comprises a composite material formed from at least one layer of fibrous material in combination with a shape memory polymer. 
   
   
       4 . The device of  claim 3  wherein said fibrous material is embedded in said shape memory polymer. 
   
   
       5 . The device of  claim 3  wherein said fibrous material is impregnated with said shape memory polymer. 
   
   
       6 . The device of  claim 3  wherein said fibrous material is carbon nano-fibers, carbon fiber, spandex, chopped fiber, random fiber mat, fabric of any material, continuous fiber, fiberglass, or other type of textile fabric. 
   
   
       7 . The device of  claim 3  wherein said fibrous material is in the form of a flat weave, two dimensional weave, or three dimensional weave pattern. 
   
   
       8 . The device of  claim 2  wherein said shape memory polymer is selected from the group consisting of a styrene shape memory polymer, cyanate ester shape memory polymer, maleimide shape memory polymer, epoxy shape memory polymer, or vinyl ester shape memory polymer. 
   
   
       9 . The device of  claim 8  wherein said shape memory polymer resin is a thermoset resin. 
   
   
       10 . The device of  claim 3  wherein said shape memory polymer is selected from the group consisting of a styrene shape memory polymer, cyanate ester shape memory polymer, maleimide shape memory polymer, epoxy shape memory polymer, or vinyl ester shape memory polymer. 
   
   
       11 . The device of  claim 10  wherein said shape memory polymer resin is a thermoset resin. 
   
   
       12 . The device of  claim 1  wherein said shape memory material comprises an embedded thermal energy generation means. 
   
   
       13 . The device of  claim 12  wherein said embedded thermal energy generation means comprises thermally conductive fibers. 
   
   
       14 . The device of  claim 12  wherein said thermal energy generation means comprises an electrical conductor. 
   
   
       15 . The device of  claim 12  wherein said shape memory material comprises an embedded thermal energy generation means and said heating is by applying electrical current to said embedded thermal energy generation means. 
   
   
       16 . The device of  claim 1  wherein said activation of said shape memory material is by heating said shape memory material above its transition temperature. 
   
   
       17 . The device of  claim 16  wherein said heating is by inductive heating, hot air or by heat lamps. 
   
   
       18 . The device of  claim 1  wherein said activation of said shape memory material is achieved by application of electromagnetic radiation. 
   
   
       19 . The device of  claim 18  where said electromagnetic radiation is visible light or ultraviolet light. 
   
   
       20 . The device of  claim 1  wherein said deforming is achieved by mechanical means. 
   
   
       21 . The device of  claim 20  wherein deforming by mechanical means is accomplished by pressing said item against said shape memory material such that said shape memory material conforms to the outer dimensions of said item. 
   
   
       22 . The device of  claim 1  wherein said deactivation of said shape memory material is achieved by reducing the temperature of said shape memory material below its activation temperature. 
   
   
       23 . The device of  claim 1  wherein said deactivation of said shape memory material is achieved by application of electromagnetic radiation. 
   
   
       24 . The device of  claim 23  wherein said electromagnetic radiation is visible light or ultraviolet light. 
   
   
       25 . The device of  claim 1  wherein said shape memory material is a shape memory alloy or metal. 
   
   
       26 . A process for securely holding an item in place comprising:
 a. preforming a shape memory material into a desired shape;   b. attaching said preformed shape memory material to a rigid structure or frame;   c. activating said shape memory material such that said shape memory material becomes soft;   d. deforming said shape memory material into a deformed shape adapted for securing said item in place;   e. deactivating said shape memory material while maintaining it in its deformed shape.