Articulated tool positioner and system employing same
US11026666B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 9, 2018 |
| Grant date | Jun 8, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 15, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2034/306
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An articulated tool positioning apparatus comprising a base member, an intermediate member, an end member and a first tool holder arranged in succession, each of the base member, intermediate member, end member and tool holder having a respective central opening. A first plurality of coupled guides id positioned between the base member and the intermediate member and a second plurality of coupled guides is positioned between the intermediate member and the end member. A third plurality of coupled guides is diposed between the end member and the tool holder. The base member, intermediate member, end member, first tool holder and first second and third pluralities of coupled guides all have a central opening and guide openings or securing points for securing pluralities of flexible control links to the base member or to an object separated from the base member. Pushing or pulling control links of a first plurality of control links causes the base member, the first plurality of coupled guides, the intermediate member, the second plurality of coupled guides and the end member to selectively define a continuous curve. A second plurality of control links causes the end member to maintain…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.