Patent ID: 7410472
Filing Date: 2008-08-12
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
1. An articulating joint moveable between an extended condition and a flexed condition, said joint comprising: (a) a disc plate rotatable about an axis pin between a first extended position and a second flexed position; (b) a clamping means comprising a first clamping element moveable between a first unclamping position to a second clamping position and a second clamping element; (c) a flexible member having a first end attached to said disc plate, a middle section extending between said first clamping element and said second clamping element and an anchored second end; and (d) an unlocking means for selectively impeding movement of said first clamping element in response to an unlocking signal, whereby during flexion of said joint, said disc plate is rotated toward said flexed position causing an increase in tension on said flexible member, which causes said first clamping element to move from said first unclamping position to said second clamping position at which said flexible member is clamped between said first clamping element and said second clamping element to prevent further flexion of said joint while permitting said joint to return to said extended condition, and whereby receipt of said unlocking signal by said unlocking means causes said unlocking means to impede movement of said first clamping element toward said second clamping position, thereby allowing free movement of said joint between said extended condition and said flexed condition.