Tool bit drive shaft connection and method
US6918913B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 22, 2002 |
| Grant date | Jul 19, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 1, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16B2200/30
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A surgical instrument is described that has a distinctive torque-transmitting coupling assembly. A tubular member made of super-elastic alloy has a driven end and a driving end with an integral tongue member, which defines a passageway that extends along a first axis. A fitting member defines a shape presenting a first mating interface surface. A tool-bit member has a second axis and presents a second mating interface surface adapted for receptive complemental facing with the first mating interface surface, including a recess formed in the second mating interface surface. Relative motion activates the super-elastic alloy of the tongue, which detentively snaps into the recess to align the first and second axes with one another. A flexible surgical reamer is similarly disclosed, where the fitting has an aperture opening onto the first mating interface surface and the tongue projects through the aperture.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.