Shape memory alloy wires conduct electricity, and when current is applied undergo Joule heating to obtain a highly linear relationship between the wires’ length and energy input. This relationship makes the Kinitics SMA-based linear positioning actuator ideally suited for positioning applications, as the voltage source can be modulated such that power input matches heat dissipation, holding the actuator at a desired position. Furthermore, in a positioning application little power is required: Less than 8 percent of the actuator’s rated power (and even less, depending on the cooling medium) is required for the actuator to hold its rated load at a set position.