Patent ID: 8123711
Filing Date: 2012-02-28
Classification: A61F,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A strong mechanical joint for use with orthotic hardware, said mechanical joint comprising: a housing with interior space; a distal bar associated with said housing so as to create a first axis of rotation, said distal bar having a proximal end and an opposed end, said distal bar also having a large gear configuration integral to said proximal end and said opposed end configured for connection to orthotic hardware secured to the lower portion of a body limb; a proximal bar associated with said housing so as to create a second axis of rotation and co-linear construction for rotation of said distal bar relative to said proximal bar, said proximal bar having an end configured for connection to orthotic hardware secured to the upper portion of a body limb; a snap ring positioned within said interior space of said housing, said snap ring having an interior surface and ratchet teeth associated with said interior surface; a brake wheel positioned within said interior space of said housing, said brake wheel having an exterior circumference that is configured as a pawl surface complementary to said ratchet teeth of said snap ring so as to provide one-direction movement of said brake wheel with incremental stops; a transfer gear positioned within said interior space of said housing, said transfer gear partially press-fit into said brake wheel to create a press-fit portion and an exposed portion and so that rotation of said brake wheel produces rotation of said transfer gear, said exposed portion of said transfer gear positioned to engage said large gear configuration integral to said proximal end of said distal bar, said transfer gear also sized relative to said large gear configuration to create a gear ratio reduction; an unlocking pin having a non-symmetrical perimeter configuration, a handle associated with said unlocking pin and configured for causing rotational movement of said unlocking pin; and a plurality of fasteners configured and positioned to secure said distal bar and said proximal bar relative to said housing in said co-linear construction, wherein once secured in their usable positions by said fasteners said snap ring, said brake wheel, and said transfer gear in combination produce a gear ratio reduction that allows a small stop increment for said distal bar during travel toward a position of maximum extension, and said handle rotated into an unlocked position where said snap ring around said brake wheel is held open by said unlocking pin which allows free rotation of said brake wheel, and corresponding free rotation of said distal bar relative to said proximal bar.