Patent ID: 8100824
Filing Date: 2012-01-24
Classification: A61B,H04B,H04M,H04W

Abstract:
1. A tool comprising: a distal portion and a proximal portion; an articulation mechanism for manipulating angular orientation of the distal portion, the articulation mechanism comprising multiple pairs of links, each pair comprising a proximal link on the proximal portion of the tool and a distal link on the distal portion of the tool, the mechanism adapted to provide movement of the proximal link causes corresponding relative movement of the distal link; and an articulation lock having an engaged position and a disengaged position, wherein in the engaged position the articulation lock impedes movement of the proximal link and corresponding relative movement of the distal link in at least one pair of links; wherein: the articulation lock, engaged with the proximal link, includes a malleable element configured to provide a malleable movement and lock the proximal link and the distal link in an articulated configuration.