Patent ID: 8747439
Filing Date: 2014-06-10
Classification: A61B,B29C,B29K

Abstract:
1. A method of using ultrasonic vibratory energy to secure an object within a body, the method comprising: providing a polymeric fastening element having a base portion and first and second arm portions, the base and first arm portions connected together to form a first recess and a first opening into the first recess, the first arm having a first detent portion extending into the first opening, the first detent portion operative to narrow the first opening, to partially block the first opening; and the base and second arm portions connected together to form a second recess and a second opening into the second recess, the second arm having a second detent portion extending into the second opening, the second detent portion operative to narrow the second opening, to partially block the second opening; passing a first portion of the object larger than said narrowed first opening through the first opening thereby pushing the first detent portion and resiliently bending the first arm to widen the first opening sufficiently for the first portion of the object to pass through the first opening past the first detent portion, whereby the first arm resiliently returns to a position narrowing the first opening, the first detent portion thereby operating to retain the first portion of the object within the first recess; applying ultrasonic vibratory energy to the fastening element to heat the polymeric material such that the material becomes moldable and flows when subjected to pressure; interrupting the application of ultrasonic vibratory energy such that as the heated material of the first side cools, a bond between the fastening element and the object is formed.