Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) have been used in engineering applications for shape control, shock absorption, damping of vibrations, automatic on-off switches, and high force actuators. In the biomedical field, the shape memory effect exhibited by SMAs has been extensively used in broken bone reattachment and spinal correction operations, while the pseudoelastic effect has been the basis for orthodontic devices and flexible eyeglasses. In the bioengineering field, the high force applied during

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... e recovery of SMAs has opened the possibility for the utilization of SMAs as muscles in biomimetic systems. As an example, there is an effort by our research team to develop a biomimetic underwater vehicle that shares the agility and hydrodynamic efficiency of aquatic animals. SMA actuators function as muscles and constitute the mechanical equivalent of the fish myotome. This paper highlights shape memory alloy applications in biomedical industry where some current devices are reviewed, along with a brief overview of our current research on an SMA actuated Biomimetic hydrofoil.