Variable stiffness devices and methods of use
US10952888B2 · kind B2 · utility
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5References
19Claims
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Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 21, 2018 |
| Grant date | Mar 23, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 4, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2005/0169
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Variable stiffness devices and methods of their use are provided. In some embodiments, a variable stiffness device comprises an inner member defining a compartment for receiving an actuating fluid; an outer member disposed around the inner member; and a granular medium disposed between the inner member and the outer member; wherein the inner member is being moveable in a radial direction from a relaxed state to an expanded state by introducing the actuating fluid into the compartment of the inner member to compress the granular medium against the outer member to increase the stiffness of the device.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.