Artificial dexterous hand
US4946380A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 30, 1989 |
| Grant date | Aug 7, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 30, 2009 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2220/0025
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An artificial dexterous hand is provided for conformally engaging and manipulating objects. The hand includes an articulated digit which is connected to an engagement sub-assembly and has a first shape adaption mechanism associated with it. The digit has a digit base and first and second phalanges. The digit base is operatively interconnected to the first phalange by a base joint having a base pulley. The phalanges are operatively interconnected by a separate first phalange joint having a first phalange pulley. The engagement sub-assembly includes a tendon, which is received by the base pulley and by the first phalange pulley, and an actuation device for selectively tensioning the tendon. The first shape adaption mechanism is responsive to and receives the tendon. It is also situated between the base joint and the first phalange joint and is connected to the first phalange. Upon actuation by the actuation device, the phalanges are caused to pivot relative to the base joint and the second phalange is caused to pivot relative to the first phalange. At the same time, the first shape adaption mechanism controls the sequence of the aforementioned pivoting of the phalanges through applic…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.