Patent ID: 6254602
Filing Date: 2001-07-03
Classification: A61B,F16B,Y10S

Abstract:
A coupling device for connection to a member, comprising:a coupling element defining a longitudinal axis and a passage extending therethrough generally along the longitudinal axis, said passage being bounded by a side wall having a first end and a second end, said side wall defining a first slot extending from said first end toward said second end and a second slot extending from said second end toward said first end, a portion of said second slot being positioned proximately adjacent and longitudinally overlapping a portion of said first slot; anda compression element at least partially formed of a shape-memory material and being disposed about said coupling element, said compression element having a first configuration and a second memorized configuration, said second configuration contracting about said coupling element and compressing said side wall against the member to thereby limit movement of the member relative to said coupling element.