Articulation apparatus for external fixation device
US8888777B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 20, 2012 |
| Grant date | Nov 18, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 20, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T403/32
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An articulation element consisting of a plurality of adjustable jaw pairs for the purposes of fixating the relative position of coupled bars and/or bone pins of an external bone fixator. Each of the adjustable jaws consists of a pair of hemispherical jaw elements contained within a spherical housing. A passage is eccentrically arranged through the jaw elements to accept the pin or bar. The jaw elements have interposed between them a spring element that serves to bias the jaw elements in the closed position. Pins serve to provisionally lock the jaw elements in the closed position. Spring loaded buttons act to release the pins thereby allowing the jaw elements to open accepting the pin or bar. The jaws are attached in a back to back fashion through the use of a threaded collar which acts as a turnbuckle pulling the jaws together when tightened.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.