Low-friction, small profile medical tools having easy-to-assemble components
US12251088B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 20, 2022 |
| Grant date | Mar 18, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 3, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2034/715
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A low-friction medical device includes a first link, a second link, and a tension member. The first link is coupled to an instrument shaft and a first guide path is defined in the first link. The second link is rotatable relative to the first link through an angular range. A distal end portion of the second link is rotatably coupled to a tool member. A curved guide path is defined within the second link between the tool member and the first guide path. A curved guide surface of the second link defines a portion of the second guide path. A first portion of the tension member is parallel to a centerline of the first guide path, and a second portion is coupled to the tool member. A third portion of the tension member between the first and second portions is in contact with the curved guide surface throughout a portion of the angular range.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.