Process for manufacturing a flexible elongate structure having an orientable end
US9084871B2 · kind B2 · utility
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Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 24, 2011 |
| Grant date | Jul 21, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 5, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49908
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method of fabricating an elongate structure having a steerable end, the structure including a flexible longitudinal body associated with at least one actuator member having at least one shape memory alloy wire or “SMAW” extending along the body and anchored thereto at its ends, and associated with a mechanism for heating it in controlled manner. The method includes the following steps: inserting at least one of the ends of the SMAW in tubes; crimping the tubes onto the ends of the SMAW; and securing the tubes to the body in such a manner that the wire extends along the body.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.