Endoscopic surgical instrument with ratchet locking device
US5922007A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 2, 1998 |
| Grant date | Jul 13, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 2, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2017/2946
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A surgical instrument includes laterally opposing members, an end effector having opposing jaws movable with respect to each other, a resilient member operably biasing the laterally opposing members away from each other, and an improved ratchet locking device. The ratchet locking device includes a first toothed plate mounted on one of the laterally opposing members, and a second toothed plate pivotally mounted on the other laterally opposing member. The second toothed member is pivotable between a first position in which the plates are engaged and a second position in which the plates are disengaged. A spring member is used for biasing the plates into engagement. A release member is provided for retaining the toothed plates in a disengaged position. The release member is mounted on one of the laterally opposing members and includes a cam surface engagable with a follower on one of the toothed plates. The release member is positionable to selectively retain the toothed plates in an engaged position or in a disengaged position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.