Patent ID: 9149392
Filing Date: 2015-10-06
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
1. A casting apparatus comprising: a) a first articulated cuboid segment and a second cuboid segment, each of said first and second cuboid segments having a proximal end and a distal end; b) a plurality of intermediate articulated cuboid segments operatively connected between said first cuboid segment and said second cuboid segment, each of said intermediate cuboid segments extending substantially parallel to said first and second cuboid segments and having a proximal end and a distal end; c) a first actuator operatively connected to said proximal end of said first cuboid segment and a second actuator operatively connected to said proximal end of said second cuboid segment, wherein said first and second actuators are spaced apart from each other and fixedly secured to an elongated flexible strap; d) a continuous cord threaded through said first and second cuboid segments and said intermediate cuboid segments, said cord having a first distal end connected to said first actuator and a second distal end connected to said second actuator; e) a first set of guide members threaded on said cord defining the distal ends of said cuboid segments; f) a second set of guide members threaded on said cord fixedly secured to said elongated flexible strap between said first and second actuators, said proximal ends of said intermediate cuboid segments being in frictional engagement with a guide member of said second set of guide members; and g) wherein simultaneous or alternating actuation of said first and second actuators applies a tension force to said cord compressing said cuboid segments to maintain said cuboid segments in a rigid configuration.