A reusable device for holding and releasing a bar. The device includes a tightening component, a hold and release component, and at least one loosening component. The hold and release component includes a plurality of segments, each segment includes a first bearing surface configured to bear on part of the bar, when the plurality of segments is in a holding configuration under the effect of a tightening pressure generated by the tightening component. The plurality of segments includes a second bearing surface configured to bear on one end of the at least one loosening component. The at least one loosening component is made from a first single-acting shape memory material. Each end of the at least one loosening component exerting a loosening pressure compensating for the tightening pressure, so as to place the hold and release component in a configuration in which the part of the arm is released.

Methods for fastening two fiber composite parts to each other with a fastener that includes electroactive polymer material. The parts have an opening within an inner circumferential surface. Fibers protrude from the inner circumferential surface into the opening and interlock with chains of micrograins of the electroactive polymer material. The fastener may switch between an activated state and a deactivated state and in the deactivated state, the fastener engages the exposed fibers.

An actuator module for releasing an equipment component comprising a module base forming a guide sleeve, a release body for coupling to the equipment component and inserted into the guide sleeve, which release body is movable relative to the guide sleeve along a sleeve axis thereof from a standby position to a working position, a blocking body mounted on the guide sleeve, which, in its blocking position, blocks the release body against movement out of the standby position into the working position and, in its release position, allows movement of the release body from the standby position into the working position, and an actuator unit for moving the blocking body from the blocking position to the release position, the actuator unit comprising at least one actuator wire of shape memory material secured with wire ends to the module base and coupled to the blocking body for applying an activating force.

A connecting element for the force- and/or form-fitting connection of a first component to a second component is provided, having a connecting portion having a shape memory material. Furthermore, a reinforcement and the use of the connecting element is provided.