Iris valve with novel locking mechanism

US8070770B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Andrew T. Beckman · Cincinnati, US
• Patrick J. Minnelli · Cassville, US
• Anthony T. Nguyen · Sharonville, US
• Chester O. Baxter, III · Loveland, US
• Michele D'Arcangelo · Roma, IT

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 22, 2007
• Grant date: Dec 6, 2011
• Expiry date: Jan 31, 2030

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B17/3498
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A laparoscopic surgical access device comprises a first frame and a second frame having relative axial positions. A flexible and resilient iris valve is connected to the first and second frames and has a closed position and an opened position based on the relative angular position of the first and second frames. A lock is connected to the first and second frames, the lock being selectively operative to prevent relative rotational movement in a first rotational direction. One embodiment uses a ratchet and pawl mechanism operable with a control ring. Another embodiment uses a ratchet and pawl mechanism operable with a button. Yet another embodiment uses a wedge track and ball mechanism.