A shape memory alloy is capable of remembering a previously memorized shape. It has to be deformed in its low temperature phase Martensite and subsequently heated to the high temperature phase Austenite, e.g. in hot water or with an electrical current. The alloy generates a high force during the phase transformation. Thus, it can be used as an actuator in a multitude of different applications. The shape change is not restricted to just pure bending. The most suitable actuation mode has proved to be the linear contraction of a straight wire actuator.

In contradiction to the mechanical shape memory effect, the thermal shape memory effect is related to a heat stimulus, with which the Memory-Metal is capable of delivering a high amount of work output per material volume.