Patent ID: 6015426
Filing Date: 2000-01-18
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A miniature articulated tip tool assembly comprising:(a) an elongated housing defining a channel therein and having at a distal end thereof a pivotal mounting for at least one jaw member;(b) an elongated drive member positioned within said channel terminating at its distal end in a bearing characterized in being (i) rotationally symmetric about the longitudinal axis of said drive member, (ii) round in longitudinal cross section at its distal end, and (iii) greater in diameter at its widest radial cross section than at its proximal end;(c) at least one single-piece actuating link defining a seat for engaging said bearing and a surface for transmitting force parallel to the longitudinal axis of said drive member, but separated therefrom by a radial moment arm, said link engaging at said seat said bearing allowing, between said link and said bearing, (i) full rotation about the longitudinal axis, (ii) limited rotation in the plane of said moment arm; and (iii) substantially no other relative motion; and(d) at least one jaw member mounted for rotation on said pivotal mounting and engaging, at a point separated from said pivotal mounting as projected upon the plane of said jaw rotation, said force-transmitting surface of said link.