Instrument with multiple articulation locks
US8465475B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 17, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jun 18, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 30, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2090/508
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An articulating tool includes proximal, central and distal portions, an articulation mechanism, and first and second articulation locks. The articulation mechanism includes a pair of links, the pair comprising a proximal link on the proximal portion of the tool and a distal link on the distal portion of the tool. The first articulation lock has an engaged position and a disengaged position. When in the engaged position, the first articulation lock impedes movement of the proximal link relative to the central portion about a yaw axis, and corresponding relative movement of the distal link. The second articulation lock also has an engaged position and a disengaged position. When in the engaged position, the second articulation lock impedes movement of the proximal link relative to the central portion about a pitch axis, and corresponding relative movement of the distal link.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.