CLAMP APPLIANCE

专利摘要:
system, method and apparatus for clamping the invention refers to several supports that are configured to allow several devices to be coupled to them. in some embodiments, the supports are for use with various medical devices. the devices can be coupled to a support by tweezers. supports may include multiple connectors that provide power and / or a network connection for devices attached to them. the supports may include a clamp that allows the supports to attach to a support structure such as a pole.
公开号:BR112015015038B1
申请号:R112015015038-1
申请日:2013-12-20
公开日:2021-03-23
发明作者:Dean Kamen；Jeffrey M. Janway；Thomas A. Friedrich；Larry B. Gray；Erik N. Sabin；John M. Kerwin；Stephen L. Fichera；Richard J. Lanigan
申请人:Deka Products Limited Partnership；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

[0001] [0001] This application is a Non-Interim Application that claims the benefit of US Serial Number Provisional Patent Application 61 / 843,574, filed on July 8, 2013 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Clamping" (Number Legal Registration K75), which is incorporated into this document as a reference in its entirety.
[0002] [0002] This application is also a Part Continuation Application for US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 833,712, filed on March 15, 2013 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Clamping", now Publication US No. US-2013- 0272773-A1, published October 17, 2013 (Legal Registration Number K23), which claims the priority and benefit of the following:
[0003] [0003] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow" (Legal Registration Number J30); and
[0004] [0004] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care" (Legal Registration Number J46), both of which are incorporated this document as a reference in its entirety.
[0005] [0005] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 833,712 (Legal Registration Number K23) claims priority and is also a Continuation Application in Part of the following:
[0006] [0006] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 333,574, deposited on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now Publication No. US-2012-0185267- A1, published on July 19, 2012 (Legal Registration Number 197) and
[0007] [0007] PCT Application for Serial Number PCT / US11 / 66588, filed on 21 December 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published on 12 September 2013 (Legal Registration Number 197 WO), both of which are incorporated into this document as a reference, in their entirety.
[0008] [0008] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 833,712 (Legal Registration Number K23) claims priority and is also a Continuation Request in Part of US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 723,238, filed on 21 December 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Clamping", now US Publication No. US-2013-0182381-A1, published on July 18, 2013 (Legal Registration Number J47), which claims priority and the benefit of the following:
[0009] [0009] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,649, filed on Wednesday, December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid" (Legal Registration Number J02);
[0010] [0010] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,658, filed on Wednesday, December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J04);
[0011] [0011] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0012] [0012] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow" (Legal Registration Number J30); and
[0013] [0013] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care" (Legal Registration Number J46), each of which is incorporated into this document as a reference in its entirety.
[0014] [0014] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 723,238 (Legal Registration Number J47) claims priority and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:
[0015] [0015] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 333,574, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published on July 19, 2012 (Legal Registration Number 197), and
[0016] [0016] PCT Application for Serial Number PCT / US11 / 66588, filed on 21 December 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published on 12 September 2013 (Legal Registration Number 197 WO), both of which are incorporated into this document as a reference, in their entirety.
[0017] [0017] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 833,712 (Legal Registration Number K23) claims priority and is also a Continuation Request in Part of US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 723,235, filed on 21 December 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Dispensing Oral Medications", now US Publication No. US-2013-0197693-A1, published on August 1, 2013 (Legal Registration Number J74), which claims the priority and benefit of the following:
[0018] [0018] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid" (Legal Registration Number J02);
[0019] [0019] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J04);
[0020] [0020] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0021] [0021] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow" (Legal Registration Number J30); and
[0022] [0022] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care" (Legal Registration Number J46), each of which is incorporated into this document as a reference in its entirety.
[0023] [0023] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 723,235 (Legal Registration Number J74) claims priority and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:
[0024] [0024] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 333,574, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now Publication No. US US-2012-0185267-A1, published on July 19, 2012 (Legal Registration Number 197), and
[0025] [0025] PCT Application for Serial Number PCT / US11 / 66588, filed on 21 December 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published on 12 September 2013 (Legal Registration Number 197 WO), both of which are incorporated into this document as a reference, in their entirety.
[0026] [0026] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 833,712 (Legal Registration Number K23) claims priority and is also a Continuing Application in Part of PCT Application No. PCT / US 12/71131, filed on 21 December 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Dispensing Oral Medications", now International Publication No. WO2013 / 096718, published on June 27, 2013 (Legal Registration Number J74WO), which claims the priority and benefit of following:
[0027] [0027] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid" (Legal Registration Number J02);
[0028] [0028] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J04);
[0029] [0029] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0030] [0030] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0031] [0031] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating or Controlling Fluid Flow" (Legal Registration Number J30), each one of which is incorporated into this document as a reference in its entirety.
[0032] [0032] PCT Order for PCT / US Serial Number 12/71131 (Legal Registration Number J74WO) claims priority and is a Continuation Order in Part of the following:
[0033] [0033] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 333,574, filed December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published on July 19, 2012 (Legal Registration Number 197), and
[0034] [0034] PCT Application for PCT / US Serial Number 11/66588, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459 , published on September 12, 2013 (Legal Registration Number 197 WO), both of which are incorporated into this document as a reference in their entirety.
[0035] [0035] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 833,712 (Legal Registration Number K23) is a Continuation Application in Part of US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 724,568, filed on December 21, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery", now US Publication No. US-2013-0184676-A1, published on July 18, 2013 (Legal Registration Number J75), which claims the priority and benefit of following:
[0036] [0036] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid" (Legal Registration Number J02);
[0037] [0037] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,658, filed on Wednesday, December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J04);
[0038] [0038] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0039] [0039] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow" (Legal Registration Number J30); and
[0040] [0040] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care" (Legal Registration Number J46), each of which is incorporated into this document as a reference in its entirety.
[0041] [0041] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 724,568 (Legal Registration Number J75) claims priority and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:
[0042] [0042] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 333,574, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published on July 19, 2012 (Legal Registration Number 197), and
[0043] [0043] PCT Application for Serial Number PCT / US11 / 66588, filed on 21 December 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published on 12 September 2013 (Legal Registration Number 197 WO), both of which are incorporated into this document as a reference, in their entirety.
[0044] [0044] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 833,712 (Legal Registration Number K23) claims priority and is also a Continuation Request in Part of US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 725,790, filed on 21 December 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid", now US Publication No. US-2013-0177455, published on Thursday, July 11, 2013 (Legal Registration Number J46), which claims the priority and benefit of the following:
[0045] [0045] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid" (Legal Registration Number J02);
[0046] [0046] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J04);
[0047] [0047] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0048] [0048] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow" (Legal Registration Number J30); and
[0049] [0049] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care" (Legal Registration Number J46), each of which is incorporated into this document as a reference in its entirety.
[0050] [0050] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 725,790 (Legal Registration Number J76) claims priority and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:
[0051] [0051] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 333,574, filed December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published on July 19, 2012 (Legal Registration Number 197), and
[0052] [0052] PCT Application for Serial Number PCT / US11 / 66588, filed on 21 December 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published on 12 September 2013 (Legal Registration Number 197 WO), both of which are incorporated into this document as a reference, in their entirety.
[0053] [0053] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 833,712 (Legal Registration Number K23) claims priority and is also a Continuation Request in Part of PCT Application No. PCT / US 12/71490, filed on 21 December 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid", now International Publication No. WO2013 / 096909, published on June 27, 2013 (Legal Registration Number J76WO), which claims the priority and benefit of the following :
[0054] [0054] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid" (Legal Registration Number J02);
[0055] [0055] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,658, filed on Wednesday, December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J04);
[0056] [0056] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0057] [0057] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow" (Legal Registration Number J30); and
[0058] [0058] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care" (Legal Registration Number J46), each of which is incorporated into this document as a reference in its entirety.
[0059] [0059] PCT Order for PCT / US Serial Number 12/71490 (Legal Registration Number J76WO) claims priority and is a Continuation Order in Part of the following:
[0060] [0060] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 333,574, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published on July 19, 2012 (Legal Registration Number 197), and
[0061] [0061] PCT Application for Serial Number PCT / US11 / 66588, filed on 21 December 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published on 12 September 2013 (Legal Registration Number 197 WO), both of which are incorporated into this document as a reference, in their entirety.
[0062] [0062] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 833,712 (Legal Registration Number K23) claims priority and is also a Continuing Application in Part of US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 723,239, filed on 21 December 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now US Publication No. US-2013-0297330-A1, published on Thursday, November 7, 2013 (Legal Registration Number J77), which claims the priority and benefit of the following:
[0063] [0063] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid" (Legal Registration Number J02);
[0064] [0064] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J04);
[0065] [0065] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0066] [0066] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0067] [0067] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating or Controlling Fluid Flow" (Legal Registration Number J30), each one of which is incorporated into this document as a reference in its entirety.
[0068] [0068] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 723,239 (Legal Registration Number J77) claims priority and is a Continuation Application in Part of the following:
[0069] [0069] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 333,574, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published on July 19, 2012 (Legal Registration Number 197), and
[0070] [0070] PCT Application for Serial Number PCT / US11 / 66588, filed on 21 December 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published on 12 September 2013 (Legal Registration Number 197 WO), both of which are incorporated into this document as a reference, in their entirety.
[0071] [0071] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 833,712 (Legal Registration Number K23) claims priority and is also a Continuation Request in Part of US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 723,242, filed on 21 December 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now US Publication No. US-2013-0317753-A1, published on Thursday, November 28, 2013 (Legal Registration Number J78), which claims the priority and benefit of the following:
[0072] [0072] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care" (Legal Registration Number J46), which is incorporated into this document as a reference in its entirety.
[0073] [0073] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 833,712 (Legal Registration Number K23) claims priority and is also a Continuation Request in Part of US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 723,244, filed on 21 December 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow", now US Publication No. US-2013- 0188040-A1, published on Thursday, July 25, 2013 ( Legal Registry Number J79), which claims the priority and benefit of the following:
[0074] [0074] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid" (Legal Registration Number J02);
[0075] [0075] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J04);
[0076] [0076] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0077] [0077] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0078] [0078] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating or Controlling Fluid Flow" (Legal Registration Number J30), each one of which is incorporated into this document as a reference in its entirety.
[0079] [0079] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 723,244 (Legal Registration Number J79) claims priority and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:
[0080] [0080] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 333,574, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1 , published on July 19, 2012 (Legal Registration Number 197) and
[0081] [0081] PCT Application for Serial Number PCT / US11 / 66588, filed on 21 December 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published on 12 September 2013 (Legal Registration Number 197 WO), both of which are incorporated into this document as a reference, in their entirety.
[0082] [0082] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 833,712 (Legal Registration Number K23) claims priority and is also a Continuation Application in Part of PCT Application No. PCT / US 12/71142, filed on 21 December 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow", now Application No. WO2013 / 096722, published on June 27, 2013 (Legal Registration Number J79WO), which claims the priority and benefit of the following:
[0083] [0083] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid" (Legal Registration Number J02);
[0084] [0084] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,658, filed on Wednesday, December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J04);
[0085] [0085] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0086] [0086] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0087] [0087] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating or Controlling Fluid Flow" (Legal Registration Number J30), each one of which is incorporated into this document as a reference in its entirety.
[0088] [0088] PCT Order of PCT / US Serial Number 12/71142 (Legal Registration Number J79WO) claims priority and is a Continuation Order in Part of the following:
[0089] [0089] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 333,574, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now Publication No. US US-2012-0185267-A1, published on July 19, 2012 (Legal Registration Number 197), and
[0090] [0090] PCT Application for Serial Number PCT / US11 / 66588, filed on 21 December 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published on 12 September 2013 (Legal Registration Number 197 WO), both of which are incorporated into this document as a reference, in their entirety.
[0091] [0091] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 833,712 (Legal Registration Number K23) claims priority and is also a Continued Application in Part of US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 723,251, filed on 21 December 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery", now US Publication No. US-2013-0204188-A1, published on Thursday, August 8, 2013 (Legal Registration Number J81 ), which claims the priority and benefit of the following:
[0092] [0092] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid" (Legal Registration Number J02);
[0093] [0093] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J04);
[0094] [0094] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0095] [0095] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0096] [0096] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating or Controlling Fluid Flow" (Legal Registration Number J30), each one of which is incorporated into this document as a reference in its entirety.
[0097] [0097] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 723,251 (Legal Registration Number J81) claims priority and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:
[0098] [0098] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 333,574, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now Publication No. US US-2012-0185267-A1, published on July 19, 2012 (Legal Registration Number 197), and
[0099] [0099] PCT Application for Serial Number PCT / US11 / 66588, filed on 21 December 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published on 12 September 2013 (Legal Registration Number 197 WO), both of which are incorporated into this document as a reference, in their entirety.
[0100] [00100] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 833,712 (Legal Registration Number K23) claims priority and is also a Continuation Request in Part of PCT Application No. PCT / US 12/71112, filed on 21 December 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery", now International Publication No. WO2013 / 096713, published on June 27, 2013 (Legal Registration Number J81WO), which claims the priority and benefit of following:
[0101] [00101] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid" (Legal Registration Number J02);
[0102] [00102] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J04);
[0103] [00103] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0104] [00104] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0105] [00105] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating or Controlling Fluid Flow" (Legal Registration Number J30), each one of which is incorporated into this document as a reference in its entirety.
[0106] [00106] PCT Order of PCT / US Serial Number 12/71112 (Legal Registration Number J81WO) claims priority and is a Continuation Order in Part of the following:
[0107] [00107] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 333,574, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published on July 19, 2012 (Legal Registration Number 197), and
[0108] [00108] PCT Application for Serial Number PCT / US11 / 66588, filed on 21 December 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published on 12 September 2013 (Legal Registration Number 197 WO), both of which are incorporated into this document as a reference, in their entirety.
[0109] [00109] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 833,712 (Legal Registration Number K23) claims priority and is also a Continuation Request in Part of US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 723,253, filed on 21 December 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now US Publication No. US-2013-0191513-A1, published on Thursday, July 25, 2013 (Legal Registration Number J85), which claims the priority and benefit of the following:
[0110] [00110] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid" (Legal Registration Number J02);
[0111] [00111] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J04);
[0112] [00112] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0113] [00113] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery" (Legal Registration Number J05);
[0114] [00114] Provisional Patent Application for Serial Number US 61 / 679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating or Controlling Fluid Flow" (Legal Registration Number J30), each one of which is incorporated into this document as a reference in its entirety.
[0115] [00115] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 723.253 (Legal Registration Number J85) claims priority and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:
[0116] [00116] US Serial Number Patent Application 13 / 333,574, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published on July 19, 2012 (Legal Registration Number 197), and
[0117] [00117] PCT Application for Serial Number PCT / US11 / 66588, filed on 21 December 2011 and entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care", now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published on 12 September 2013 (Legal Registration Number 197 WO), both of which are incorporated into this document as a reference, in their entirety.
[0118] [00118] This application may also be related to the following patent application, which is incorporated into this document as a reference, in its entirety:
[0119] [00119] PCT application for "System, Method, and Apparatus for Clamping", filed on December 20, 2013 (Legal Registration Number L51WO). BACKGROUND FIELD OF REVELATION
[0120] [00120] The present disclosure refers, in general, to releasably attaching an object to another object (for example, clamping a medical device on a mast). More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a system, method and apparatus for mounting an object on a mast or other support structure. DESCRIPTION OF RELATED TECHNIQUE
[0121] [00121] Patient care generally involves numerous medical devices and systems that are used to monitor and treat a patient. The specific medical devices needed vary with each patient and may change during the course of treatment. Medical devices often require monitoring through healthcare providers and therefore need to be easily accessible. They are often expensive, so redundancy is rarely possible and a given device will often need to be moved to a different patient after treatment is completed. Given your expense, medical devices need to be securely and securely attached to a location to prevent damage or an interruption in patient care if they are detached.
[0122] [00122] Medical devices are typically attached to a vertical mast located near the head of your assigned patient. This arrangement facilitates: equipment fixed to be customized according to the patient's treatment, convenient monitoring by healthcare providers, minimizing the length of the tubing and other connections between the patient and the device and the movement of the mast and equipment fixed to follow the patient's movement. A typical fixation involves a clamp attached to the medical device and a threaded screw that can be tightened to compress a section of the support mast positioned between the clamp and the screw. Typically, turning the screw clockwise advances the screw into the clamp and secures the medical device to the mast; counterclockwise rotation retracts the screw and allows the device to be removed. Since the advancing screw makes contact with the support mast, it exerts a force predominantly based on compression on the mast that holds the medical device in position against the downward pull of gravity. The user manually adjusts the clamp to the masts of different diameter by varying the amount of screw rotations and the direction of rotation of the screw rotations, thus controlling how far inside the clamp the screw extends. Such positioning and adjustment faces numerous restrictions, for example, it can take time, there is a risk of non-alignment, there is a risk of human error (that is, it does not have enough tightness) etc. SUMMARY CLAMP MECHANISMS
[0123] [00123] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a clamp comprises a housing. The clamp can also include at least one tongue. At least one tongue can be pivotally coupled to a pivot point. The clamp can also include a support bar. The support bar can be operationally coupled to at least one tongue. The support bar can be configured to control at least one tongue. The clamp may also include at least one diverter member operably coupled to the housing. The at least one deviation member can be configured to deviate at least one tongue towards a first position. The clamp may additionally include an actuator operably coupled to the support bar. The actuator can be configured to move the support bar to thereby move at least one tongue to a second position.
[0124] [00124] In some embodiments, said housing may include a means of coupling the clamp to a load. In some embodiments, the clamp can be configured to attach to a medical device. In some embodiments, the medical device may be an infusion pump. In some embodiments, the medical device may be a peristaltic infusion pump.
[0125] [00125] In some embodiments, the clamp can be configured so that a downward pull of gravity on the clamp causes at least one tongue to amplify the clamping force exerted on a clamped object.
[0126] [00126] In some modalities, the accommodation additionally comprises at least one track. In some modalities, the housing has at least one handle.
[0127] [00127] In some embodiments, at least one of the at least one tongue additionally comprises a gripping surface configured to engage a clamped object. The grip surface can be produced from a material that will firmly grip, but without deformation, a clamped object.
[0128] [00128] In some embodiments, at least one of the at least one bypass member will be a spiral spring. At least one of the at least one bypass member will be a pneumatic spring. At least one of the at least one bypass member will be a torsion spring. At least one of the at least one bypass member produced from one will be a compressible elastic material. At least one of the at least one bypass member will be a constant force spring.
[0129] [00129] In some embodiments, said housing includes a rear plate with at least one handle attached to it.
[0130] [00130] The clamp can additionally comprise at least one track, in which the at least one track is deflected and displaced from the housing.
[0131] [00131] In yet other embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise at least one set of tongues. The at least one set of tabs may include a tab of at least one tab, and the tab may be pivotally coupled to the tab set.
[0132] [00132] In some embodiments, the at least one set of tongues may additionally comprise a sliding wedge and the tongue can be pivotally coupled to the sliding wedge. The sliding wedge comprises an engaging surface configured to move along at least one rail. In some embodiments, at least one set of tabs can be slidably attached to the support bar. The support bar can be configured in such a way that at least one tongue, among all, moves in unison with each other.
[0133] [00133] In some embodiments, the housing may comprise a vertical groove configured to engage with an engaging surface of the support bar to thereby guide the movement of the support bar.
[0134] [00134] In some modalities, at least one tongue can be configured to engage a variety of different objects clamped with a circumference.
[0135] [00135] In some embodiments, the actuator may comprise a handle. The handle can be configured to be operated by a user in order to overcome the at least one bypass member and move at least one tongue from the first position to the second position.
[0136] [00136] In some modalities, the accommodation may include a fastener. The at least one fastener can be configured to engage the actuator and retain it in one of the first and second positions.
[0137] [00137] In some embodiments, the clamp of the housing may comprise a first and a second deflected track displaced from a rear plate. The at least one tongue may comprise a tongue pivotally coupled to a first sliding wedge. The first sliding wedge can be configured to run along the first rail. A second tongue can be pivotally coupled to a second sliding wedge. The second sliding wedge can be configured to run along the second rail. The support bar can be configured to slide into the first and second sliding wedges in such a way that the support bar thus ensures that the first and second tabs move in unison with each other. The at least one bypass member can be configured to deflect the lift bar to the first position. A handle can be attached to the support bar and configured to be operated by a user in order to overcome at least one bypass member to thereby move the first and second tabs to the second position. In addition, a fastener can be configured to engage a slot in said loop and when engaged, retains the loop in one of the first and second positions.
[0138] [00138] In some modalities, the accommodation can comprise at least one vertical track. In some embodiments, at least a pair of tongues can be pivotally coupled to the housing. The at least one pair of tongues can be coupled, joining them, through the support bar. The support bar can ensure that at least one pair of tabs move in unison.
[0139] [00139] In some embodiments, said support bar may comprise an engaging surface for movement along said track in said housing.
[0140] [00140] In some modalities, the actuator can be a pivoting actuator handle. The pivoting actuator handle can be configured to be pulled by the user to move the clamp between the first position and the second position.
[0141] [00141] In some embodiments, the clamp housing may comprise at least one vertical track. The at least one tongue may comprise the first and second tongues, each pivotally coupled to the housing. The support bar can be attached to the first and second tabs. The support bar can be configured to ensure that the first and second tabs pivot in unison with each other. The at least one bypass member can be configured to deflect the lift bar towards the first position. The actuator handle can be configured to be operated by a user in order to overcome at least one bypass member to move the support bar towards the second position.
[0142] [00142] In some embodiments, the housing may comprise at least one rail located on an interior surface of the housing along a wall of at least one hollow cavity in the housing. The at least one rail can be vertical.
[0143] [00143] In some embodiments, the housing may additionally comprise at least one gripping surface. Said housing may comprise a back plate to which at least one fixed grip surface is attached. The at least one fixed grip surface can be formed from a material that will firmly grip, but without deformation, a clamped object.
[0144] [00144] In some embodiments, at least one tongue may comprise only a single tongue. Said single opposite tongue may be a fixed grip surface. The first tongue and the opposite fixed grip surface can be configured to automatically imitate the circumference of a clamped object.
[0145] [00145] In some embodiments, the support bar may comprise an engaging surface for movement along at least one vertical rail. The support bar can be attached to a single tongue. The movement of the lift bar can cause the single tongue to pivot around the pivot point of the single tongue.
[0146] [00146] In some embodiments, the actuator can be a pressable trigger.
[0147] [00147] In some embodiments, the clamp housing may comprise at least one hollow cavity with at least one vertical track that extends along at least part of an interior wall of the hollow cavity. The clamp may comprise at least one fixed grip surface. The at least one tongue may comprise a single tongue, pivotally coupled to the housing. The support bar may comprise an engaging surface for engaging at least one vertical rail on at least part of the interior wall of the housing. The support bar can engage the single tongue in this way, making the same pivot around its pivot point as the support bar moves along at least one vertical rail. The at least one bypass member can be configured to deflect the lift bar to the first position. The actuator can be configured to be operated by a user in order to overcome at least one bypass member to move the support bar towards the second position.
[0148] [00148] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of producing a clamp may comprise providing a housing such that the housing comprises at least one track. The method may also comprise providing at least one tongue configured to engage a clamped object such that the at least one tongue is pivotally coupled to a pivot point. The method may also comprise providing a support bar in such a way that the support bar can be coupled to at least one tongue and in such a way that the support bar can have the ability to control the movement of at least one tongue. The method may also comprise providing the at least one bypass member in such a way that the at least one bypass member can be configured to deflect at least one tongue to a first position. The method may also comprise providing an actuator such that the actuator can be configured to be operated by a user in order to overcome the at least one bypass member to move at least one tongue to a second position.
[0149] [00149] In some embodiments, providing said forceps comprises providing said forceps for use with medical devices and accessories.
[0150] [00150] In some embodiments, providing said housing comprises providing a means of coupling to a load.
[0151] [00151] In some embodiments, providing the coupling means to the load comprises providing the coupling means to a load that is one of a medical device and a medical accessory.
[0152] [00152] In some embodiments, providing one of the medical device and the medical accessory may comprise providing an infusion pump.
[0153] [00153] In some embodiments, providing the infusion pump may comprise providing a peristaltic infusion pump.
[0154] [00154] In some modalities, providing said accommodation may include providing at least one loop in the accommodation.
[0155] [00155] In some embodiments, providing said at least one tongue may additionally comprise providing a gripping surface for engaging a clamped object on at least part of a surface of the at least one tongue. Providing said gripping surface may comprise said gripping surface which is of a material that will firmly grip, but without deformation, the clamped object.
[0156] [00156] In some embodiments, providing said at least one bypass member may comprise providing at least one spiral spring. Providing said at least one bypass member may comprise providing at least one pneumatic spring. Providing said at least one bypass member may comprise providing at least one torsion spring. Providing said at least one bypass member may comprise providing at least one compressible elastic material.
[0157] [00157] In some modalities, providing the accommodation may include providing a back plate with at least one handle.
[0158] [00158] In some embodiments, providing at least one track may comprise providing at least one track in such a way that the at least one track is deflected and moved from the housing.
[0159] [00159] In some embodiments, providing at least one tongue may comprise providing at least one tongue in such a way that the at least one tongue is pivotally coupled to a set of tongues.
[0160] [00160] In some embodiments, providing the clamp may comprise providing at least one tongue in such a way that the at least one tongue is pivotally coupled to a sliding wedge. Providing the sliding wedge may comprise providing the sliding wedge with an engaging surface for movement along at least one rail.
[0161] [00161] In some embodiments, providing the set of tongues may comprise providing the set of tongues in such a way that the set of tongues can be slidably coupled to the support bar. Providing the support bar may comprise providing the support bar in such a way that the support bar has the ability to move the tongue assembly.
[0162] [00162] In some embodiments, providing the housing may comprise a vertical groove in the housing that engages an engaging surface on the support bar to thereby guide the movement of the support bar.
[0163] [00163] In some embodiments, providing the clamp may comprise providing the clamp in such a way that the clamp has the ability to automatically imitate the circumference of a variety of different clamped objects.
[0164] [00164] In some embodiments, providing the actuator may comprise providing a handle. Providing the handle may comprise providing the handle in such a way that the handle has the ability to be operated by a user in order to overcome the bypass members and move the gripper from a first position to a second position.
[0165] [00165] In some embodiments, providing accommodation may comprise providing at least one catch.
[0166] [00166] In some embodiments, providing at least one bypass member may comprise providing at least one spring of constant force.
[0167] [00167] In some embodiments, providing at least one fastener may comprise providing at least one fastener in such a way that at least one fastener has the ability to engage the actuator and retain the actuator in one of the first and second positions position.
[0168] [00168] In some embodiments, providing the clamp may comprise providing the housing, such that the housing comprises two deviated rails displaced from a back plate. Provide a first set of tongues in such a way that one is pivotally coupled to a sliding wedge. Providing the sliding wedge may comprise providing the sliding wedge in such a way that the sliding wedge can have the ability to extend along one of the deviated tracks. Providing a second set of fingers opposite and symmetrical to the first set of latches as a second latch is pivotally coupled to a second sliding wedge and so that the second sliding wedge has the ability to extend along the other between the bypassed rails . Provide the support bar in such a way that a cross piece of the support bar attaches to the two sets of tabs and in such a way that the support bar ensures that the sets of tabs move in unison with each other. Provide the at least one bypass member in such a way that the at least one bypass member tilts said clamp to a first position. Provide a handle, said handle having the ability to be operated by a user in order to overcome at least one bypass member and move the gripper to a second position. Provide a fastener in such a way that said fastener can have the ability to engage a slot in said handle and, when engaged, retains the forceps in any of the first or second positions. Provide the clamp in such a way that the downward pull of gravity on the clamp causes the sliding wedges to move towards each other.
[0169] [00169] In some embodiments, providing at least one rail may comprise providing at least one vertical spring.
[0170] [00170] In some embodiments, providing at least one tongue may comprise providing at least one pair of tongues pivotally coupled to the housing.
[0171] [00171] In some embodiments, providing at least one pair of tongues may comprise providing at least one pair of tongues in such a way that the at least one pair of tongues is coupled, all tongues together, through the support bar and where the support bar ensures that at least one pair of tongues move in unison.
[0172] [00172] In some embodiments, providing the support bar may comprise providing the support bar with an engaging surface for movement along at least one rail in the housing.
[0173] [00173] In some embodiments, providing the actuator may comprise providing a pivoting actuator handle.
[0174] [00174] In some embodiments, providing the pivoting actuator handle may comprise supporting the pivoting actuator handle in such a way that the pivoting actuator handle can be pulled by the user towards at least one handle in the housing in order to move the clamp from the first position to the second position.
[0175] [00175] In some embodiments, providing the clamp may comprise providing the housing, such that the housing may comprise at least one pair of vertical rails. Provide at least one pair of tongues pivotally coupled to the housing. Provide the support bar in such a way that said support bar is coupled to at least one pair of tongues and in which the support bar ensures that the at least one pair of tongues pivot in unison with each other. Provide the at least one bypass member in such a way that the at least one bypass member tilts said clamp to the first position. Provide an actuator handle, said actuator handle having the ability to be operated by a user in order to overcome at least one bypass member and move the clamp to the second position. And provide the clamp in such a way that the downward pull of gravity on the clamp causes the tongues to pivot towards each other.
[0176] [00176] In some embodiments, providing at least one track may comprise locating at least one track within the housing along at least one wall of at least one hollow cavity.
[0177] [00177] In some embodiments, providing at least one rail may comprise providing at least one rail in such a way that the at least one rail is vertical.
[0178] [00178] In some embodiments, providing the accommodation may additionally comprise providing at least one fixed grip surface in the accommodation.
[0179] [00179] In some embodiments, providing the housing may include providing a back plate to which at least one fixed grip surface is attached.
[0180] [00180] In some embodiments, providing at least one fixed grip surface may comprise at least one fixed grip surface such that the at least one fixed grip surface is of a material that will hold on tightly, but without deformation, to a clamped object.
[0181] [00181] In some embodiments, providing at least one tongue may comprise providing only a single tongue.
[0182] [00182] In some embodiments, providing the single tongue may comprise a fixed grip surface opposite the single tongue.
[0183] [00183] In some embodiments, providing the single tongue and the opposite fixed grip surface may comprise providing the single tongue and the opposite fixed grip surface in such a way that the single tongue and the opposite fixed grip surface have the ability to imitate automatically the circumference of a clamped object.
[0184] [00184] In some embodiments, providing the support bar may comprise providing an engaging surface on the support bar for movement along at least one rail.
[0185] [00185] In some embodiments, providing the support bar may comprise the support bar in such a way that the support bar engages a single tongue and in which the movement of the support bar causes the single tongue to pivot around from the pivot point.
[0186] [00186] In some embodiments, providing the actuator may comprise providing a pressable trigger.
[0187] [00187] In some embodiments, providing the clamp may comprise providing the housing in such a way that said housing can comprise at least one vertical track that extends along at least a part of the hollow cavity. Provide at least one fixed grip surface. Providing at least one tongue in which providing at least one tongue comprises provides a single tongue pivotally coupled to the housing. Provide the support bar in such a way that said support bar has an engaging surface to engage at least one vertical rail and in such a way that the support bar engages the single tongue, causing the same pivot around from the pivot point as the support bar moves along said rail. Provide the at least one bypass member in such a way that the at least one bypass member tilts said clamp to the first position. Provide the actuator in such a way that said actuator has the ability to be operated by a user in order to overcome at least one bypass member and move the clamp to the second position. And provide the clamp in such a way that the downward pull of gravity on the clamp causes the single tongue to rotate towards at least one fixed gripping surface.
[0188] [00188] According to another embodiment of the disclosure, a clamp may comprise a guide plate having a first end, a second end and a plurality of surfaces, the first gripper is mounted on one of the plurality of surfaces and a second gripper is slidably coupled to one of the plurality of surfaces, said second gripper is located between said first gripper and said second end. The clamp may also comprise an actuator, the said actuator being rotatably attached to said guide plate, the actuator is configured and positioned on said guide plate in such a way that the rotation of said actuator moves said second gripper in towards said first grabber. The clamp may also comprise at least one deviation member configured to deflect the second gripper to a first position.
[0189] [00189] In some embodiments, the at least one bypass member can be a compression spring.
[0190] [00190] In some embodiments, said second gripper is mounted on a sliding frame, said sliding frame being in the sliding connection with said guide plate and is configured to allow said second gripper to move between the first position and a second position.
[0191] [00191] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise at least one spring support fitted to said sliding frame. Said at least one spring support can comprise at least a portion with a diameter smaller than a diameter of said at least one compression spring. Said portion of said at least one spring support can be positioned to fit within the diameter of said at least one compression spring.
[0192] [00192] In some embodiments, the at least one spring support may additionally comprise an expanded end, wherein said expanded end is an end closer to said first gripper and wherein said end has a diameter greater than the diameter of said at least one compression spring.
[0193] [00193] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise a pressure plate, said pressure plate slidably coupled to both said slide frame and said guide plate and may additionally comprise a projection, the said projection being located adjacent to said actuator and positioned in such a way that the rotation of said actuator moves said projection towards said first gripper.
[0194] [00194] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise at least one diverter member housing attached to said pressure plate. Said at least one bypass member housing may be hollow and may comprise a sealed end. Said at least one bypass member housing may comprise a diameter larger than the diameter of said at least one bypass member.
[0195] [00195] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise a deviation member located on said guide plate and oriented in such a way that the movement of said second gripper towards said first gripper stores mechanical energy in said deviation member.
[0196] [00196] In some embodiments, the guide plate may additionally comprise a bypass member support, said bypass member support is coupled to said guide plate and dimensioned to support said bypass member.
[0197] [00197] In some embodiments, at least one of said second gripper or said first gripper can be comprised of a material that will firmly grip, but without deformation, a clamped object.
[0198] [00198] In some embodiments, at least a part of at least one of the first gripper or the second gripper can be comprised of polyurethane.
[0199] [00199] In some embodiments, at least one of said second gripper or said first gripper can be at least partially covered by a removable surface.
[0200] [00200] In some embodiments, at least one of said second gripper or said first gripper can comprise at least one approximately semicircular or contoured face.
[0201] [00201] In some embodiments, one of the plurality of surfaces of said guide plate may comprise a support wall, said support wall supporting said first gripper. In some embodiments, the support structure may additionally comprise one or more reinforcements, said reinforcements extending from said support wall to said guide plate.
[0202] [00202] In some embodiments, the actuator may comprise a loop.
[0203] [00203] In some embodiments, said actuator may comprise a cam with at least one flat segment.
[0204] [00204] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a clamp may comprise a guide plate that has a first end, a second end and a plurality of surfaces, the first gripper is coupled to one of the plurality of surfaces, a second the gripper is slidably coupled to one of the plurality of surfaces of the guide plate, the second gripper is coupled to said plate and at least one bypass member, said said bypass member being coupled to both said placaguia and said second plate.
[0205] [00205] In some embodiments, the guide plate may additionally comprise a member adapted as a palm support. Said member may have the shape of a U.
[0206] [00206] In some embodiments, the second plate may additionally comprise a support. Said second plate can additionally comprise a second member, the second member being adapted as a loop. Said handle can be U-shaped.
[0207] [00207] In some embodiments, at least one of said second gripper or said first gripper can be comprised of a material that will firmly grip, but without deformation, a clamped object.
[0208] [00208] In some embodiments, at least one of said second gripper or said first gripper can be at least partially covered by a removable surface.
[0209] [00209] In some embodiments, at least one of said second gripper or said first gripper can comprise at least one approximately semicircular or contoured face.
[0210] [00210] In some embodiments, one of said plurality of surfaces of said guide plate may comprise a support wall, said support wall supporting said first gripper.
[0211] [00211] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise one or more reinforcements, said reinforcements extending from said support wall to said guide plate.
[0212] [00212] In some embodiments, said second plate may comprise a support wall, said support wall supporting said second gripper.
[0213] [00213] In some embodiments, the second plate may additionally comprise one or more reinforcements, said reinforcements extending from said support wall of said second plate to said second plate.
[0214] [00214] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise a pinion gear in operational engagement with said support of said second plate.
[0215] [00215] In some embodiments, said second plate comprises a groove through which the pinion gear protrudes. In some embodiments, at least one edge of said groove may comprise the teeth of said support.
[0216] [00216] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise a gear shaft, said gear is coupled to said guide plate. Said pinion gear can rotate about the geometric axis of said gear axis.
[0217] [00217] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise a ratchet.
[0218] [00218] In some embodiments, said ratchet may comprise a ratchet lever, said ratchet lever may comprise, a ratchet lever entry structure, a ratchet lever exit structure and a gear lever hub. rotating ratchet around the geometric axis of the gear shaft and to which the ratchet lever input structure and the output structure are coupled.
[0219] [00219] In some embodiments, the ratchet lever entry structure may comprise a ratchet lever handle.
[0220] [00220] In some embodiments, the exit structure of the ratchet lever may comprise one or more members. The members of the exit structure can hold at least one tongue.
[0221] [00221] In some embodiments, the actuation of the ratchet lever can cause the tongue to operationally engage the pinion gear through a hole in the ratchet lever hub.
[0222] [00222] In some embodiments, the actuation of the ratchet lever can cause the second gripper to move from the first position towards a second position.
[0223] [00223] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise a central connection in which the central connection is a central position when the second gripper is in one of the first position and the second position.
[0224] [00224] In some embodiments, the forceps may be for use with medical devices.
[0225] [00225] In some embodiments, the at least one bypass member can be an extension spring.
[0226] [00226] In some embodiments, the length not subjected to the tension of said extension spring may be slightly less than the distance between an extension spring coupling point on the guide plate and an extension spring coupling point in the second he scores.
[0227] [00227] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a clamp may comprise a housing that has a first end, a second end and a plurality of surfaces. The clamp may comprise a first gripper base coupled to one of said plurality of surfaces. The clamp may comprise a second gripper base slidable around one of said plurality of surfaces, said second gripper base is located between said first gripper base and said second end. The clamp may also comprise at least one diverter member, an actuator, said actuator being pivotally coupled to said housing and at least one gear.
[0228] [00228] In some embodiments, the at least one of the at least one gear may be an eccentric cam gear.
[0229] [00229] In some embodiments, the first gripper can be attached to the base of the first gripper and a second gripper can be attached to the base of the second gripper.
[0230] [00230] In some embodiments, at least one of said movable gripper or said fixed gripper can be comprised of a material that will firmly grip, but without deformation, a clamped object.
[0231] [00231] In some embodiments, at least one of said first gripper or said second gripper can be at least partially covered by a removable surface.
[0232] [00232] In some embodiments, at least one of said first gripper or said second gripper can comprise at least one approximately semicircular or contoured face.
[0233] [00233] In some modalities, the actuator can be a handle. The handle may be approximately L-shaped, comprising a horizontal arm and a vertical arm. Said vertical arm may comprise a closure housing dimensioned to accommodate a closure of the actuator handle.
[0234] [00234] In some embodiments, the closure housing comprises at least one diverter member, said diverter member being positioned to divert said actuator loop closure to a first position.
[0235] [00235] In some embodiments, said actuator handle closure can be attached to a housing structure when in the first position it rejects any rotation of the actuator.
[0236] [00236] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise a sliding frame.
[0237] [00237] In some embodiments, said sliding frame may comprise at least one guide recess dimensioned to fit a guide projection on said second grip base.
[0238] [00238] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise a sliding frame, said sliding frame may comprise a means for sliding coupling to said second grip base.
[0239] [00239] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise at least one bypass member support coupled to at least one face of said sliding frame.
[0240] [00240] In some embodiments, the at least one of the at least one bypass member will be a spiral spring.
[0241] [00241] In some embodiments, said deflection member support may comprise a projection dimensioned to fit a spiral diameter of a compression spring.
[0242] [00242] In some embodiments, the bypass member support may additionally comprise an end, said end may be attached to said bypass member support and may have a larger diameter than said spiral diameter of said compression spring .
[0243] [00243] In some embodiments, at least one of the at least one gear can be coupled eccentrically and rotatively to a gear shaft.
[0244] [00244] In some embodiments, a gear shaft may rotate when the actuator is actuated.
[0245] [00245] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise at least one additional cam gear, said additional cam gear may be positioned to be rotated by said gear on said gear shaft.
[0246] [00246] In some embodiments, said additional cam gear may be eccentrically and pivotally attached to said second gripper.
[0247] [00247] In some embodiments, an additional cam gear can be eccentrically and swiveled to said second gripper.
[0248] [00248] In some embodiments, said additional cam gear can be swiveled to said gear via a connection.
[0249] [00249] In some embodiments, said connection may be approximately a claw-shaped body, said connection may be configured to restrict the arc through which the gear and the additional cam gear have the ability to rotate.
[0250] [00250] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise a lock, said lock may be an operably displaceable body attached to said first grip base.
[0251] [00251] In some embodiments, said closure may comprise at least one surface that defines a fastener.
[0252] [00252] In some embodiments, the lock can hold at least a portion of the actuator, rejecting the additional actuation of the actuator.
[0253] [00253] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise a closure, said closure may be an operably displaceable body attached to said first grip base. Said closure may comprise at least one surface that defines a fastener, said fastener has the ability to engage a portion of the horizontal arm of the handle and thereby reject the additional actuation of said handle.
[0254] [00254] In some embodiments, said closure may comprise a trough flanked by at least one inclined surface.
[0255] [00255] In some embodiments, the closure may additionally comprise at least one deflection member configured to deflect the closure to a first position.
[0256] [00256] In some embodiments, the closure may assume a second position during at least part of the actuator's operation.
[0257] [00257] In some embodiments, the lock may be in the first position after the actuator is fully actuated and operatively engage the actuator to prevent further actuation of the actuator.
[0258] [00258] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a clip may comprise a twist lock, said twist lock comprising a bundle having a front, a rear and a bottom. The clamp may additionally comprise at least one spring retainer, said spring retainer comprising a pair of approximately circular projections attached to said bottom of said twist lock. The clamp can additionally comprise at least one torsion spring, said torsion spring is dimensioned to fit between said pair of approximately circular projections. The clamp may additionally comprise at least one closing hook. The at least one locking hook may comprise a slot. The twist lock can additionally be configured to pivot between a first position and a second position.
[0259] [00259] In some embodiments, the clamp can be configured to attach a medical device to a support structure.
[0260] [00260] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise a closing wedge, said closing wedge may be a triangular prism projecting from at least a portion of said front of said twist lock.
[0261] [00261] In some embodiments, the closure may additionally comprise at least two closing hooks.
[0262] [00262] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a clamp may comprise a housing, first and second gripper jaws, both said gripper jaws contained at least partially in said housing, a first bracket comprising part of the first jaw of gripper and a second bracket comprising part of said second gripper jaw, a first gripping surface coupled to at least one surface of the first bracket, a second gripping surface coupled to at least one surface of the second bracket, at least one gear, said gear operably coupled to said first gripper jaw and said second gripper jaw and at least one diverter member attached to said housing and to at least one of the first and second gripper jaws.
[0263] [00263] In some embodiments, the at least one diversion member may comprise two diversion members, one of which is said diversion member extending from said first grab jaw to said housing, the other being of said diversion members extends from said second gripper jaw to said housing.
[0264] [00264] In some embodiments, the bypass members can be extension springs.
[0265] [00265] In some embodiments, the first and second gripper jaws can comprise at least one toothed surface.
[0266] [00266] In some embodiments, said at least one gear is a pinion gear that can engage with at least one of said toothed surfaces of said first or said second gripper jaw.
[0267] [00267] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise a handle, said handle is pivotally attached to said first gripper jaw. Said handle can be movable between a first and a second position.
[0268] [00268] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise at least one connection, said connection may extend from the handle to said first gripper jaw.
[0269] [00269] In some modalities, at least one of the connections can be a central connection.
[0270] [00270] In some embodiments, at least one of the connections can operatively couple the handle to a cam, such that when said handle is moved to said second position, said cam pushes said first gripper jaw and said second closest grab jaw.
[0271] [00271] In some embodiments, the central connection may be in a central position when the handle is in the second position.
[0272] [00272] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a clamp may comprise a base for fixing an object, said base having a central line. The clamp can also comprise a pair of grippers, said pair of grippers is oriented obliquely towards said center line of said base.
[0273] [00273] In some embodiments, the object may be a medical device.
[0274] [00274] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a clamp can comprise a housing, first gripper and second gripper, at least one of the first and the second grippers that are movable and an actuator. The actuator can be configured to actuate the movable gripper of the first and the second grippers between a first position and a second position. The clamp may additionally comprise at least one connection. At least one connection can operatively couple the actuator to the movable gripper. The clamp may additionally comprise at least one deviation member configured and positioned so as to provide clamping force when the movable gripper of the first and second grippers is in one of the first and second positions.
[0275] [00275] In some embodiments, said at least one connection may be a central connection. The central link can be in a central orientation when the mobile gripper is in one of the first and second positions.
[0276] [00276] In some embodiments, said first gripper and second gripper can be oriented obliquely towards a central line of said gripper.
[0277] [00277] In some embodiments, said movable gripper can be slidably coupled to a driven member.
[0278] [00278] In some embodiments, said driven member can be slidably coupled to a housing.
[0279] [00279] In some embodiments, at least two of the bypass members can be compression springs, said compression springs can be positioned in such a way that when compressed the compression springs are configured to exert a clamping force on a clamped object .
[0280] [00280] In some embodiments, at least one diverter member can be a spring of constant force, said at least one spring of constant force can be positioned in such a way that when unrolled a clamping force is exerted against a clamped object.
[0281] [00281] In some modalities, the actuator can be a handle.
[0282] [00282] In some embodiments, at least one of the at least one diverter member may be an extension spring, said extension spring is attached to said loop at a first end and said housing at a second end.
[0283] [00283] In some embodiments, said at least one extension spring can be a central spring and can be in a central orientation when the mobile gripper is in one of the first and second positions.
[0284] [00284] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise a closure, said closure may be pivotally coupled to said actuator and which comprises a closure projection.
[0285] [00285] In some embodiments, said closure may be pivotable between a first position and a second position. Said closure may comprise a closure body with a plurality of faces at least one of which may additionally comprise at least one ergonomic feature.
[0286] [00286] In some embodiments, the closure can be deflected to the first position by means of at least one torsion spring.
[0287] [00287] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise a clamping clamp, the clamping clamping being part of one of the first clamping jaw and the second clamping jaw.
[0288] [00288] In some embodiments, said closing fastener can be configured to retain said closing projection when said actuator has actuated the movable gripper for one of the first position and the second position.
[0289] [00289] In some embodiments, pivoting the closure from the first position to the second position can release the closure projection from said closure fastener.
[0290] [00290] In some embodiments, the forceps may be for use with medical devices and medical accessories.
[0291] [00291] In some embodiments, the housing may include a means of coupling the clamp to a load. The charge can be a medical device. In some embodiments, the medical device may be a peristaltic infusion pump or syringe piston infusion pump.
[0292] [00292] In some embodiments, at least part of at least one of the grippers may comprise a gripping surface that is of a material that will firmly grip, but without deformation, a clamped object.
[0293] [00293] In some embodiments, said gripping surface can be removable and / or replaceable.
[0294] [00294] In some embodiments, said gripping surface may comprise a semicircular or contoured face.
[0295] [00295] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a clamp includes a housing, a fixed gripper, a driven member, a movable gripper and an actuator. The accommodation includes first and second tracks. The fixed gripper is attached to the housing. The driven member is configured to slide on the first and second tracks of the housing. The mobile gripper is operationally coupled to the driven member. The actuator is configured to move the driven member towards a first position to thereby move the movable gripper towards the fixed gripper. The actuator is further configured to move the driven member towards a second position, thereby moving the movable grip in the opposite direction from the fixed grip. The actuator can be a handle pivotally attached to the housing. The clamp may additionally include the first and second connections. The first connection can be coupled to a first side of the loop and a first side of the driven member and the second connection can be attached to a second side of the loop and a second side of the driven member.
[0296] [00296] The clamp may additionally comprise a gripper frame slidably coupled to the driven member. A bypass member can be configured to bypass the gripper frame on the driven member towards the fixed gripper.
[0297] [00297] The driven member may include a stop member configured to prevent the movement of the gripper frame in relation to the driven member in addition to a predetermined location of the driven member. The movable grip can be operatively coupled to the grip frame.
[0298] [00298] The bypass member can be a constant force spring, a compression spring or another compressible or expandable spring.
[0299] [00299] The clamp can be configured to allow the gripper frame to stop when in contact with an object while allowing the driven member to continue to move as the actuator is additionally actuated.
[0300] [00300] The gripper frame can be rigidly coupled to the movable gripper and the gripper can additionally include a deviation member configured to deflect the gripper frame on the driven member towards the fixed gripper.
[0301] [00301] In yet another embodiment, a clamp includes a housing, a fixed gripping medium and a mobile gripping medium. The fixed gripping means is to be rigidly coupled to the housing. The means of mobile gripping is to grab the clamp on an object. SUPPORT APPARATUS AND SUPPORT SYSTEM
[0302] [00302] In the present disclosure, a support can include a support member that has a first end part and a second end part which is opposite the first end part. The support can also include at least one assembly. The at least one assembly can be coupled to the support member and can be arranged on the support member between the first end part and the second end part of the support member. In addition, a clamp can be attached to the support member and the clamp can be configured to have a clamped position and an unchanged position.
[0303] [00303] In an exemplary embodiment, the support member can be an object with a cylindrical shape, such as a mast. In certain embodiments, the at least one assembly may be approximately perpendicular to the support member. The at least one assembly can also be stretched in a first direction, where the first direction is approximately perpendicular to the support member. The at least one assembly may also include a substantially flat surface. Similarly, each at least one assembly can be a plate. Additionally, at least one assembly can be pivotally connected to the support member. The at least one assembly can also be configured to rotate around a longitudinal geometric axis of the support member. In addition, at least one assembly can be pivotally connected to the support member. In certain embodiments, the hinge can be configured to have a geometric axis of rotation in a transverse plane of the support member. In other embodiments, the hinge can be configured to have a geometric axis of rotation in a longitudinal plane of the support member. In addition, at least one assembly can be removably connected to the support member. Alternatively, at least one assembly can be fixedly connected to the support member. The at least one assembly may also include a flange that extends upwardly from a second end of the at least one assembly, wherein the second end of the at least one assembly is opposite a first end of the at least one assembly.
[0304] [00304] In a preferred embodiment, at least one assembly can be configured to receive a medical device. The medical device can be attached to any one of the at least one assembly. Likewise, the medical device can be detachable from any one of the at least one assembly.
[0305] [00305] The support can additionally comprise a base member that can be coupled to the support member. The base member can be positioned in a spaced relation with the support member and can be configured to provide a moment of force that is sufficient to cancel a moment of force around the clamp of the support. In a preferred embodiment, the base member can be configured to be close to a support structure at a resting point and thereby the position of the support member at a distance away from the support structure. The base member may include a slot at the resting point where the base member is close to the support structure and the slot may have a radius of curvature. Alternatively, the base member can include a clamp that is configured to clamp on a support structure. In a preferred embodiment, the base member can be operatively coupled to the second end portion of the support member. In embodiments in which the base member is coupled to the second end portion of the support member, two or more wheels can be coupled to the base member. In certain embodiments, the at least two wheels can be removably attached to the base member. In other embodiments, a wheel assembly can couple at least two wheels to the base member. The wheel assembly can also be removably attached to the base member. In addition, the base member can himself be configured to receive a medical device.
[0306] [00306] The support clamp can include a fixed grip and a movable grip. In a preferred embodiment, the clamp can be operatively coupled to the first end part of the support member. To engage with a support structure, the movable gripper can move in a first direction in the direction of the fixed gripper. To disengage from the support structure, the mobile gripper can move in a second direction in the direction of the fixed gripper. The fixed grip and the movable grip can be shaped to fit with a range of different support structures. Thus, the clamp can be configured to be removably coupled with a support structure when the clamp is in the clamped position.
[0307] [00307] To enable the at least one assembly, the support member and the clamp to be conducted as a group, the support can additionally comprise a handle that can be coupled to the first end part of the support member and that can be arranged above at least one assembly. The handle can approach the shape of a "U" and can be configured to extend in a direction approximately perpendicular to the support member.
[0308] [00308] Each of at least one assembly also includes a respective connector. The connector can be configured to interface with a medical device, such as a monitoring client. In a preferred embodiment, the respective connector of at least one assembly can be configured to receive power. The power can be supplied by a power system that is configured to supply power to the respective connector of the at least one assembly. The supply system can be configured to receive balanced AC power and to provide DC power to the respective connector of at least one assembly. Similarly, the supply system can be configured to receive unbalanced alternating current power and to provide direct current power to the respective connector of at least one assembly. The power supply system may include a power supply system that is operatively coupled to the support member, and each of the at least one assembly may include a respective power transmission system that is configured to supply power to the respective connector. at least one assembly. The base member can operationally include elements of the aforementioned feeding system.
[0309] [00309] In certain modalities, the respective connector of at least one assembly can be configured to conduct signals. To conduct signals between the respective connectors, each of the at least one assembly can include a respective support plate bus that is connected to the respective connector on it and the respective support plate bus can interface with a central bus that is coupled operationally to the support member.
[0310] [00310] Substantially rigid materials such as aluminum alloys, stainless steel alloys, steel alloys and manipulated polymers can be used to construct the support and components such as at least one assembly, the support member, the base member and the clamp. In addition, at least a portion of the support member, at least one assembly, the base member and the forceps may include an antibacterial, an antimicrobial or an antiviral coating.
[0311] [00311] A support system may include the support described above. The support system may additionally comprise at least one device that can be adapted to be received by any one of at least one support assembly. The device may additionally include a gripper mechanism which is configured to couple operably and removably with the support member of the support. In addition, the device may include a connector that can be configured to communicate electrically with the respective connector of any one of the at least one assembly. The clamp mechanism of the at least one device can comprise any of the clamp mechanisms described above. In a preferred embodiment of the support system, the device may be a medical device.
[0312] [00312] In some embodiments of a support apparatus, the support apparatus may comprise at least one support mast having a first end part and a second end part, at least one of a clamp, hanger or handle assembly attached to the first end portion of the support mast, at least one mounting connector, at least one alignment feature operably coupled to the support mast; and a base member attached to the second end portion of the support mast.
[0313] [00313] The at least one mounting connector can be configured to engage operationally with a medical device connector. At least one of the at least one alignment feature can be configured to align the medical device connector with at least one of the at least one mounting connector. At least one of the at least one alignment feature can be included in a collar on the support mast.
[0314] [00314] The support device can additionally comprise a supply system. The supply system can be configured to supply power to at least one medical device via at least one mounting connector. The assistive device may comprise a communication system configured to allow a fixed medical device to communicate with at least one other fixed medical device via at least one mounting connector. The communication system can be configured to use at least one of a CANbus protocol and a USB protocol.
[0315] [00315] In some embodiments, the base member may comprise a power connector, a power supply, a main power cable that electrically connects the power connector and the power supply and at least one transmission cable that connects to power supply and at least one mounting connector.
[0316] [00316] The support mast can be configured to accept clamps. In such embodiments, the clamp may comprise a housing that includes first and second tracks, a fixed gripper coupled to the housing, a driven member configured to slide on the first and second tracks of the housing, a movable gripper operably coupled to the driven member and an actuator configured to move the driven member towards a first position, thereby moving the movable grip towards the fixed grip, the actuator is further configured to move the driven member towards a second position, thereby move the movable grip in the opposite direction to the fixed grip.
[0317] [00317] The clamp can be configured to attach a medical device to the support mast of the support device. A medical device connector can be arranged on the clamp and can be configured to engage operationally with at least one of the at least one mounting connector to receive at least one of a network connection and power for the medical device.
[0318] [00318] The support device can be configured to attach to a serum mast. The at least one supporting mast may be a serum mast. The base member can additionally comprise at least one wheel.
[0319] [00319] In some embodiments, the support device may be part of a system comprising the support device. In such embodiments, a support apparatus may comprise at least one support mast having a first end part and a second end part, at least one of a clamp, hanger or handle assembly attached to the first end part of the mast support, at least one mounting connector, at least one alignment feature operably coupled to at least one support mast; and a base member attached to the second end portion of the support mast. The system may also comprise a clamp configured to clamp at least one supporting mast. The clamp may comprise a housing that includes the first and second tracks, a fixed grip attached to the housing, a driven member configured to slide on the first and second tracks of the housing, a movable grip operatively coupled to the driven member and an actuator configured to move the driven member towards a first position to thereby move the movable grip towards the fixed grip, the actuator is additionally configured to move the driven member towards a second position, thereby moving the movable grip in the opposite direction to the fixed grip.
[0320] [00320] In some embodiments, at least one of the at least one mounting connector can be configured to engage operationally with a medical device connector. At least one of the at least one alignment feature can be configured to align the medical device connector with at least one of the at least one mounting connector. The medical device connector can be disposed on one of the fixed gripper or the movable clamp gripper. The medical device connector can be configured to operatively engage with at least one of the at least one mounting connector to receive at least one of a network connection and power for a medical device. The medical device can be a monitoring client that comprises a tablet-type computer. The medical device can be an infusion pump. The medical device can be a PCA. The medical device can be a physiological monitor. PROTECTIVE MECHANISMS
[0321] [00321] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the connectors can be arranged in protective mechanisms that can be coupled to the support. In a specific embodiment, a protective mechanism includes: a guide member; a connector that is coupled to the guide member; an actuating member having the first and second end portions, wherein the first end part of the actuating member is pivotally coupled to the guide member; and a cover member that can be pivotally coupled to the guide member. The cover member can be configured to interact with the actuation member in order to pivot, thereby discovering the connector when the actuation member pivots in a first direction and pivoting to cover the connector when the actuation member pivots in a second opposite direction. The protective mechanism may also include a stop member that is arranged on one face of the guide member. The stop member can also include a stop member that is arranged on one face of the guide member. The connector can be arranged on the face of a stop member.
[0322] [00322] In a specific embodiment, the cover member of the protective mechanism can be adapted to discover the connector when the actuating member pivots from a first position to a second position. The cover member can be adapted to cover the connector when the actuating member pivots in a second direction opposite from the second position to the first position. The face of the stop member can define a recess or a groove that is configured to receive at least a portion of the cover member when the cover member is completely uncovered and the actuating member is in the second position.
[0323] [00323] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the protective mechanism may additionally comprise a compatible gasket that can be coupled to the stop member and configured to cover the connector. The cover member may include a perimeter rib that can be adapted to seal against the compatible gasket when the actuating member is in the first position and the connector is covered by the cover member. In some embodiments, the compatible gasket may include a first portion, a second portion and a transitional portion between the first and second portions of the compatible gasket; the perimeter rib can be adapted to seal against at least the first portion of the compatible gasket when the actuating member is in a first position and the connector is covered and the perimeter rib can be adapted to seal against at least the second portion of the compatible gasket when the actuating member is in the second position and the connector is uncovered.
[0324] [00324] To receive a device, the protective mechanism can additionally comprise the first and second rail projections. Each rail projection can have a web portion and a wider head portion such that the web portion engages the head portion to the face of the guide member. The first and second rail projections can be arranged on the face of the guide member in such a way that they are approximately parallel and in spaced relation to each other. Between the first and second rail projections, the guide member can define a groove that extends from a first face of the guide member (the face of the mentioned guide member) to a second face of the guide member, or the member -guide can define a recess that is arranged on the face of the guide member. Both the recess and the groove can be adapted to receive a portion of the actuating member.
[0325] [00325] The actuating member of the protective mechanism may include an inclined face that defines an inclined portion of the actuating member. In some embodiments, due to the angled face, the angled portion of the actuation member may increase in cross-sectional area from the first end portion of the actuation member to a point where the angled face ends between the first and second end portions of the acting member. The inclined face can be tilted such that the inclined face projects from the plane of the face of the guide member when the actuating member is in a first position and when the actuating member is in a second position. The inclined face can extend substantially in the plane of the face of the guide member. The protective mechanism may additionally comprise at least one actuation spring which can deflect the actuation member in such a way that the actuation member can automatically return to the first position under the force of the actuation spring. Thus, the at least one actuation spring can have a first end that is coupled to the actuation member and a second end that is coupled to the guide member.
[0326] [00326] The protective mechanism may also include a closing member that can be pivotally coupled to the guide member at a pivot point between the first and second end portions of the closing member. In addition, the closure member can define a groove that has the capacity to receive at least a portion of the actuating member and the closure member can include a closure projection that can be arranged on the first end portion of the closure member and if protrudes from the face of the guide member when the closing member is in a locked position. Like the actuating member, the closing member can be adapted to automatically return to the locked position under the force of one or more closing springs. Thus, each of one or more locking springs can have a first end that is coupled to the stop member and a second end that is attached to the locking member at a point between the pivot point and the second end portion of the member closing. To suspend the pivoting movement of the closing member under the force of at least one closing spring, the protective mechanism may additionally comprise at least one locking projection that can be coupled to the guide member and arranged in spaced relation to the pivot point of the closing member in such a way that at least one locking projection can suspend the pivoting movement of the closing member when the closing member pivots to the locked position.
[0327] [00327] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the cover member is a protective member that includes a cover portion. The protective member can have a first end part which is coupled to one of the guide member and the stop member and the protective member can have a second end part which includes the cover portion. To protect the connector, the protective member can be adapted to engage with the actuating member in such a way that the pivoting movement of the actuating member in a first direction from the first position to the second position can cause the protective member to pivot from a protective position to a non-protective position and thereby uncover the connector. Likewise, the pivoting movement of the actuating member in a second opposite direction from the second position to the first position can cause the pivot-protecting member from the non-protective position to the protective position to thereby cover the connector.
[0328] [00328] The acting member of the first modality may include the first and second channeled projections arranged in the second end part of the acting member. The first and second channeled projections can be spaced in such a way that a portion of the protective member can be received between them. To enable the acting member to act on the protecting member, the protecting member may include first and second acting projections that are adapted to engage the acting member's first and second channeled projections respectively. Thus, the first and second channeled projections can include, respectively, a first channel and a second channel, in which each channel is shaped and dimensioned such that the pivoting movement of the actuating member from the first position to the second position can cause the pivot protective member from the protective position to the non-protective position.
[0329] [00329] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the protective mechanism may include a closing member. In addition, the first embodiment of the protective mechanism may include a closing member that defines a closing groove between the first end portion of the closing member and the pivot point of the closing member. The locking groove can be configured in such a way that the actuating member can pass through the locking groove when the actuating member is in the first position and the locking groove can receive at least the covering portion of the protective member when the actuating member actuation is in the second position and the protective member is in the non-protective position.
[0330] [00330] The first modality of the protective mechanism can additionally comprise a compatible gasket that can be coupled to the stop member and cover the connector. To seal the connector on the compatible gasket, the cover portion of the protective member may include a perimeter rib that is adapted to seal the compatible gasket when the protective member is in the protective position.
[0331] [00331] A second modality of the protective mechanism may differ from the first modality of the protective mechanism. The second embodiment of the protective mechanism can include at least a first connecting member and at least a second connecting member. Each of the at least one first connecting member can be configured to have a respective first end portion and a respective second portion such that the respective first end portion can be pivotally coupled to the second end portion of the member of performance. Likewise, each of the at least one second connecting member may have a respective first end portion and a second second portion. The respective first end part of the at least a second connecting member can be pivotally coupled to each of the stop member at a first point and the respective second end portion of a respective at least one first connecting member at one second point. The first point and the second point can be arranged in a spaced relation such that the pivoting and substantially translational movement of the second end portion of the actuating member can be transmitted through at least one first connecting member and then causes that the at least one second connecting member pivots around the first point.
[0332] [00332] The cover member of the second embodiment of the protective mechanism can be pivotally coupled to the respective second end portion of the at least one second connecting member in such a way that the cover member can pivot to a non-protective position and, thus, uncovering the connector when the actuating member pivots in the first direction and pivoting to a protective position and thereby covering the connector when the actuating member pivots in the second direction. To enable the at least one second connecting member to engage with the cover member, the second embodiment of the protective mechanism may additionally comprise at least one through slot defined by the stop member, and each of the at least one second member connection cable can be arranged in a respective at least one through slot.
[0333] [00333] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the protective mechanism may include a compatible gasket. The compatible gasket can be coupled to the stop member and have a first portion, a second portion and a transition portion between the first portion and the second portion of the compatible gasket. The first portion of the compatible gasket can be configured to cover the connector. The transition portion of the compatible gasket can be configured to cover each of the at least one passage groove. And the second portion of the compatible gasket can be configured to mirror the first portion of the compatible gasket.
[0334] [00334] To seal against the compatible gasket, the cover member may include a perimeter groove. The perimeter groove can be adapted to compress the first portion of the compatible gasket and a portion of the transition portion in such a way that the perimeter groove covers the connector and each of the at least one passage groove when the cover member is in the protective position. When the cover member is in the non-protective position, the perimeter groove can be adapted to seal against the compatible gasket in such a way that the perimeter groove compresses the second portion of the compatible gasket and a portion of the transition portion in such a way that the perimeter groove covers each of the at least one passage groove.
[0335] [00335] The protective mechanism may additionally include a stop member recess or a stop member groove defined by the stop member face. The stop member recess and the stop member groove can be configured to receive at least a portion of the cover member when the cover member is in the non-protective position.
[0336] [00336] The protective mechanism can be a modality of a component of a system to receive a device. The system for receiving a device may comprise at least one protective mechanism and at least one receivable device. The at least one protective mechanism can include a guide member that has a face of the guide member, a connector that is coupled to the guide member, an actuation member, a cover member and at least one rigid member disposed in the member- guide. The actuating member can be configured to have a first end part and a second end part, where the first end part can be pivotally coupled to the guide member, and then the actuating member can pivot in a first direction from a first position to a second position and a second direction from a second position to the first position. The cover member can be pivotally coupled to the guide member and adapted to interact with the actuating member in order to pivot to discover the connector when that actuating member pivots in the first direction and pivot to cover the connector when the actuating member pivoting performance in the second opposite direction. In any embodiment described in this document, the protective mechanism can be adapted to be a protective mechanism of the system for receiving a device.
[0337] [00337] The at least one device receivable from the system for receiving one device may comprise a connector and at least one channel. The connector can be arranged on the receivable device in such a way that it has the ability to interface with the connector of at least one protective mechanism. The at least one channel can be arranged on the receivable device and configured to receive the at least one rigid member of the respective at least one protective mechanism. The at least one receivable device may additionally comprise a respective closing recess defined by a respective face of the at least one receivable device. The respective closing recess can be adapted to engage with a projection of the closing member of the at least one protective mechanism such that the at least one receivable device is securely received through at least one protective mechanism.
[0338] [00338] In an exemplary embodiment, a clamp apparatus is described. The clamp apparatus may comprise a body, a first handle and a second handle. The first handle and the second handle can be operationally attached to the body. The clamp apparatus also includes a first movable grip and a second movable grip. The first movable grip and the second movable grip are coupled to the first handle and the second handle, respectively. In an exemplary embodiment, the body is positioned in an intermediate way between the handles and the grippers. The first handle and the second handle are fixedly coupled to the first movable grip and the second movable grip, respectively, thereby controlling the movement of the first movable grip and the second movable grip. The clamp apparatus also includes a first gear set and a second gear set which are pivotally coupled to the body and operably coupled to the first handle and the second handle, respectively, as well as the first movable gripper and the second gripper mobile, respectively. The first gear set and the second gear set are configured to engage operationally with each other. In an exemplary embodiment, the first gear set may include a first top gear and a first bottom gear that is fixedly coupled to the first top gear, such that the first top gear and the first bottom gear move together in unison . Similarly, the second gear set may include a second upper gear and a second lower gear that is fixedly coupled to the second upper gear, such that the second upper gear and the second lower gear move together in unison. The first upper gear and the first lower gear can be configured to operatively engage the second upper gear and the second lower gear, respectively.
[0339] [00339] The clamp apparatus also includes at least one bypass member operatively engaged with the first handle and the second handle. The at least one branch member is configured to branch the first handle and the second handle towards the first position. The first movable gripper and the second movable gripper are engaged with each other, defining a clamped position, when the first handle and the second handle are in the first position. The first handle and the second handle are configured to move, thus, under actuation, to a second position, whereby the first movable gripper and the second movable gripper are disengaged from each other, defining an unchanged position.
[0340] [00340] In some embodiments, the gripper device additionally comprises a gripping surface on the first movable gripper and the second movable gripper, configured to engage a clamped object. In some embodiments, the grippers are configured to clamp a mast. In an exemplary embodiment, the forceps device is for use with medical devices and medical accessories. In an exemplary embodiment, the clamp apparatus is configured to attach a medical device to a support mast. The mast may be an IV drip mast. The medical device can be a monitor comprising a tablet computer. In an exemplary embodiment, the clamp apparatus is configured to attach an infusion pump to a support mast. The infusion pump can be a peristaltic infusion pump. In an exemplary embodiment, the clamp device has the ability to automatically imitate the circumference of a variety of different clamped objects.
[0341] [00341] In an exemplary embodiment, at least part of at least one of the first movable gripper or the second movable gripper can be comprised of a material that will firmly grip, but without deformation, a clamped object. In some embodiments, at least a part of at least one of the first movable gripper or the second movable gripper can be comprised of polyurethane. In some embodiments, at least part of at least one of the grippers may be comprised of rubber or may be coated with a rubberized grip material. In some embodiments, at least one of the first movable grip or the second movable grip can be at least partially covered by a removable surface. In some embodiments, at least one of the first movable grip or the second movable grip can comprise at least one semicircular or contoured face approximately arcuate on the grip surface.
[0342] [00342] In an exemplary embodiment, at least a part of at least one of the first mobile gripper or the second mobile gripper can have fingers. In an exemplary embodiment, the first mobile gripper and the second mobile gripper both have fingers. The fingers of the first movable gripper and the second movable gripper can be interlocked when the grippers are engaged with each other, the correspondence with the handles being in the first position. The fingers of each gripper can be partially intertwined due to the partial engagement of the grippers with each other, and the correspondence with the handles is in an intermediate position between the first and the second positions.
[0343] [00343] In some embodiments, the at least one bypass member is a spring. Furthermore, the at least one diverter member may be a flat spring or a spring bundle. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one diversion member can be at least one arrangement of several diversion members. In addition, the at least one diverter member may be an arrangement of multiple flat springs arranged in a layered configuration. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one bypass member can be produced from a flexible compressible material. In some embodiments, the at least one bypass member may comprise a first bypass member and a second bypass member. In one embodiment, the first bypass member can be a first bypass member arrangement, which includes multiple individual bypass members, and the second bypass member can be a second bypass member arrangement, which also includes multiple individual bypass members. . In an exemplary embodiment, the first and / or second diversion members can include a single diversion member. In addition, the first and second bypass members or the individual bypass members can be springs or, in an exemplary embodiment, they can be torsion springs.
[0344] [00344] In an exemplary embodiment, the first handle and the second handle of the forceps apparatus can be blades. In an exemplary modality, the handles may have a concave shape in the opposite direction or in the direction of the body, with the handles being operable. The handles can be configured to be pulled by a user on the first side or pushed by the user on a second side in order to move the grips from the first position to the second position. In some embodiments, the first handle and the second handle may additionally comprise a palm support. The member adapted as a palm support can be U-shaped. In an exemplary embodiment, the first handle and a second handle can provide a pair of handles. The handles are configured for operation by a user in order to overcome the bypass member arrangement and to overcome the first movable gripper and the second movable gripper from the first position to the second position.
[0345] [00345] In an exemplary embodiment, the clamp apparatus comprises a third gear set and a fourth gear set, the gears are operationally coupled to the first handle and the second handle, respectively, and swivelly coupled to the body. In an exemplary embodiment, the third and fourth gear sets can share a geometric axis of rotation with the first gear set and the second gear set, respectively. The third gear set and the fourth gear set can be operatively coupled to the first movable gripper and the second movable gripper, respectively. The third and fourth gears can be configured to operationally engage a locking mechanism in association with the handles. The locking mechanism comprises a first gain, a first fastener, a second gain and a second fastener. In an exemplary embodiment, the third and fourth gears can be operationally engaged with each other.
[0346] [00346] In an exemplary embodiment, the handles and gears can be configured to allow the slight initial rotational movement of the handles in advance of the subsequent rotational movement of the grippers, when moving the first and second handles from the first position to the second position. Similarly, the handles and gears can be configured to allow the slight additional rotational movement of the handles following the stop of the rotational movement of the grippers, when moving the first and second handles from the second position back to the first position. The initial slight rotational movement of the handles can perform an unlocking function, freeing the grippers to move.
[0347] [00347] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a clamp comprises a body, the body having a first end and a second end. The clamp may also include a lever, the lever is operatively coupled to the first end of the body. The clamp may also include a movable grip. The mobile gripper can be coupled to an intermediate portion of the body, between the first end and the second end. The clamp can also include at least two fixed grips. The fixed grips can be positioned at the second end of the body. The fixed grips can be configured to approximately oppose the movable gripper in such a way as to secure a mast from opposite sides. The clamp may also include a connector member. The connector member may have a first end operably coupled to the lever and a second end operably coupled to the movable gripper.
[0348] [00348] In some embodiments, the mobile gripper can be rotatable around a point of coupling of the intermediate portion of the body. The movable gripper can also be approximately cuneiform in shape and have a narrow end and a wide end. The narrow end of the movable gripper can be attached to the body and the mobile gripper can be rotatable around the narrow end. The wide end of the movable gripper may have a grooved surface. In addition, the striated surface may extend along the wide end of the wedge-shaped mobile gripper. The wide end of the movable gripper can have a semicircular or contoured face opposite the at least two fixed grippers. The wide end of the movable gripper can also be configured to complement the shape of a mast.
[0349] [00349] In some embodiments, the grippers additionally comprise gripping surfaces configured to engage a clamped object. Gripping surfaces can be produced from a material that will firmly grip, but without deformation, a clamped object. In some embodiments, the grabbers are configured to close on a mast. In some embodiments, the grippers can be rubber. The handles can be coated with a rubberized grip material.
[0350] [00350] In some embodiments, providing the body may comprise providing a back plate to which at least two fixed grippers are attached.
[0351] [00351] In some embodiments, providing the mobile gripper and the opposite fixed grippers may comprise providing the mobile gripper and the opposite fixed grippers in such a way that the mobile gripper and the opposite fixed grippers have the ability to automatically imitate the circumference of an object pinned.
[0352] [00352] In some embodiments, the connector member can be configured to rotate the mobile gripper in the actuation of the connector member.
[0353] [00353] In some embodiments, the connector member includes a diversion member. The diverter member may be a spring and, in some embodiments, the spring may be a compression spring. The deflected member can be a compressible or expandable spring. In some embodiments, the connector member includes a piston. The piston can be a spring-inclined piston. The diverter member can be oriented in such a way that the movement of the connector member towards the movable gripper stores mechanical energy in the diverter member.
[0354] [00354] In some embodiments, the connector member can be pivotally connected to the lever at the first end of the connector member. The connector member can be coupled to a lever joint, the lever joint being positioned at one end of the lever. The connector member can also be pivotally connected to the movable gripper at the second end of the connector member. The connector member can be configured to extend, under the actuation of the lever, towards the movable gripper, thereby rotating the movable gripper towards the fixed grippers.
[0355] [00355] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise a bypass member support coupled to the connector member. The bypass member support may have a portion with a diameter less than a diameter of the bypass member. The deviation member support portion can be positioned to fit within the deviation member diameter.
[0356] [00356] In some embodiments, the clamp may additionally comprise a diverter member housing coupled to the connector member. The bypass member housing may be hollow and may have a sealed end. The diverter member housing may have a diameter larger than the diameter of the diverter member. In some embodiments, the clamp lever can be a handle. The lever can be configured to, under actuation, rotate towards the body of the clamp. The lever may include a lever joint at one end of the lever. The lever joint can be a cam, such that when the lever is moved to the first position, the cam pushes the connector member, thereby pushing the movable gripper closer to the fixed grippers. The lever is configured to move the connector member towards a first position to thereby move the movable gripper towards the fixed grippers. The lever is further configured to move the connector member towards a second position, thereby moving the movable gripper in the opposite direction from the fixed grippers. The gripper can be configured to allow the mobile gripper to stop when in contact with an object while allowing the connector member to continue to move as the lever is additionally actuated.
[0357] [00357] In some embodiments, the lever may include a sliding ring aligned coaxially with the top end of the lever and surrounding it, the top end being the closest to a lever joint. The slip ring can be configured to release the lever from a locked position. The slip ring can be configured to slide out of a slot in the lever joint, thereby unlocking the lever and releasing the lever to rotate. The slip ring may include a ring deviation member, the ring deviation member being configured to deflect the slip ring to a slotted position. The ring bypass member can be a compression or expansion spring.
[0358] [00358] In still other modalities, the clamp can additionally comprise a locking set, the locking set being configured to interact with the mobile gripper. The locking assembly may include a tongue and the tongue may include a tongue offset member. The bypass member can be a spring and, in some embodiments, the bypass member can be a torsion spring. The tongue can be pivotally coupled to the locking assembly, the tongue is configured to rotate in contact with an upper grooved surface of the movable grip, locking the grip in place.
[0359] [00359] In some embodiments, the locking assembly may additionally comprise a slide member and the tongue may be in contact with the slide member. The sliding member may have a first end in contact with the lever joint. The sliding member can make contact with an outer surface of the lever joint, the outer surface of which has a compressed portion. The locking assembly can be configured to move the sliding member to the compressed portion of the lever joint, allowing the tongue to rotate in contact with the movable grip and thereby lock the movable grip in place.
[0360] [00360] In some embodiments, the forceps may be for use with medical devices and medical accessories.
[0361] [00361] In some embodiments, the body may include a means of coupling the clamp to a load. The charge can be a medical device. In some embodiments, the medical device may be a peristaltic infusion pump or syringe piston infusion pump.
[0362] [00362] In some embodiments, the clamp can be configured to attach a medical device to a support mast. The mast may be an IV drip mast. The medical device can be a monitor comprising a tablet computer. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0363] [00363] These and other aspects will be more evident from the following detailed description of the various modalities of the present disclosure with reference to the drawings in which:
[0364] [00364] Figures 1A to 1E show different views of a clamp according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0365] [00365] Figures 2A to 2E show different views of a clamp according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0366] [00366] Figures 3A to 3E show different views of a clamp according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0367] [00367] Figures 4A to 4D show several views of a clamp according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0368] [00368] Figures 5A to 5D show several views of a clamp according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0369] [00369] Figures 6A to 6G show several views of a clamp according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0370] [00370] Figures 7A to 7D show several views of a clamp according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0371] [00371] Figures 8A to 8D show several views of a clamp according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0372] [00372] Figures 8E to 8F show an alternative embodiment of the clamp shown in Figures 8A to 8D according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0373] [00373] Figure 8G shows an alternative embodiment of a mobile gripper assembly with a housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0374] [00374] Figure 9A is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a support apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0375] [00375] Figure 9B is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a device assembly, such as that illustrated in Figure 9a, in which the device assembly includes a support plate that is adapted to receive a medical device in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0376] [00376] Figure 9C is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a joint member that is adapted to mate with the embodiment of a device assembly that is illustrated in Figure 9b according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0377] [00377] Figure 9D is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a base member that includes a supply system that is configured to transmit power to at least one device assembly like the embodiment illustrated in Figure 9b according to a modality of the present disclosure;
[0378] [00378] Figure 9E illustrates a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a support apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0379] [00379] Figure 9F is a perspective view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a support apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0380] [00380] Figure 9G to H are perspective views of an exemplary collar of a support apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0381] [00381] Figure 9I is a perspective view of an exemplary support device that includes numerous mounting connectors according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0382] [00382] Figure 9J is a perspective view of an exemplary support apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0383] [00383] Figure 9K is an enlarged view of a portion of the support mast of the exemplary support apparatus illustrated in Figure 9j according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0384] [00384] Figure 10A is a perspective view of an exemplary modality of a support system, in which the modality of a support illustrated in Figure 9A includes a support mast adapted to be coupled with the clamp of a medical device in accordance with with one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0385] [00385] Figure 10B is a perspective view in the foreground of the exemplary modality of a support system illustrated in Figure 10A, in which the modality of the support includes a mounting connector that can be coupled to a connector device when the medical device coupling with the support mast in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
[0386] [00386] Figure 10C is another alternative perspective view of the exemplary modality of a support system illustrated in Figure 10A, in which a modality of a medical device includes a modality of a connector device that can be coupled to a mounting connector, as the embodiment illustrated in Figure 10B, when the medical device is coupled with the support mast according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0387] [00387] Figure 10D is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a support system, which includes the embodiment of a support illustrated in Figure 9e according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0388] [00388] Figure 10E is a perspective view in the foreground of an exemplary infusion pump with a flange in place on the guide through a support plate of the exemplary support modality illustrated in Figure 9e according to one embodiment of the present disclosure ;
[0389] [00389] Figure 10F is a perspective view of an exemplary modality of a support system, in which the modality of a support illustrated in Figure 9f includes a support mast adapted to be coupled with the clamp of a medical device in accordance with with one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0390] [00390] Figure 10G illustrates a perspective view of a support mast of a support system, in which the support mast includes numerous mounting connectors on a mounting connector strip according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0391] [00391] Figure 10H illustrates a perspective view of numerous mounting connectors on a mounting connector strip in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0392] [00392] Figure 10I illustrates a view of a part of an exemplary support mast of an exemplary support system, wherein the support mast includes a mounting connector on a mounting connector strip according to one embodiment of the present revelation;
[0393] [00393] Figure 10J shows a side view of an exemplary mounting connector coupled to a mounting connector strip in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0394] [00394] Figure 10K shows a perspective view of an exemplary gripper of a clamp apparatus, wherein the exemplary gripper includes a connector device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0395] [00395] Figure 10L is a perspective view in the foreground of an exemplary modality of a support system, in which the modality of a support illustrated in Figure 9F includes a support mast adapted to be coupled with the clamp of a device physician according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0396] [00396] Figure 10M is a perspective view of an exemplary modality of a support system, in which the modality of a support illustrated in Figure 9J includes a support mast adapted to be coupled with the clamp of a medical device in accordance with with one embodiment of the present disclosure; and
[0397] [00397] Figure 10N illustrates a perspective view in the foreground of an exemplary modality of a support system, in which the modality of a support illustrated in Figure 9J includes a support mast adapted to be coupled with the clamp of a device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0398] [00398] Figure 11A illustrates an embodiment of a pivotable covering mechanism according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0399] [00399] Figure 11B illustrates an actuation spring of an exemplary modality of the pivotable covering mechanism illustrated in Figure 11A that acts on the inclined portion of an actuation member, in which the actuation spring is arranged in an actuation spring pocket according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0400] [00400] Figure 11C illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the pivotable covering mechanism in which a mounting connector is covered by a protective member in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0401] [00401] Figure 11D illustrates an embodiment of a pivotable covering mechanism in which the protective member is in a non-protective position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0402] [00402] Figures 11E to I illustrate several cross-sectional views of an embodiment of a pivotable covering mechanism according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0403] [00403] Figure 11J illustrates a view of an exemplary embodiment of the pivotable covering mechanism, in which the protective member is shown in a protective and non-protective position and in which the mounting connector is of a type that has multiple spring contacts according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0404] [00404] Figure 11K illustrates a cross-sectional view of part of the pivotable covering mechanism, in which the mounting connector is of a type that has multiple spring contacts according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0405] [00405] Figure 12A illustrates a view of an embodiment of a shell-shaped mechanism in which the cover member is in a non-protective position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0406] [00406] Figure 12B illustrates a view of an embodiment of a shell-shaped mechanism in which the cover member is in a protective position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0407] [00407] Figure 12C illustrates a perspective view in the foreground of part of a modality of a shell-shaped mechanism according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0408] [00408] Figure 12D illustrates a cross-sectional view of a shell-shaped mechanism in which the cover member includes a perimeter rib according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0409] [00409] Figures 12E to H illustrate numerous cross-sectional views of a shell-shaped mechanism according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0410] [00410] Figure 12I to J illustrates numerous views of an exemplary embodiment of a series of mechanisms in the shape of a shell with gasket systems compatible according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0411] [00411] Figure 13A illustrates an embodiment of an exemplary receivable device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0412] [00412] Figure 13B illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a receivable device that includes first and second channels and a closing recess according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0413] [00413] Figure 13C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the exemplary pivotable covering mechanism of Figure 11a in which a position of the closing member is engaged with a closing recess of an exemplary embodiment of a receivable device according to an embodiment of the present revelation;
[0414] [00414] Figure 13D to G illustrates numerous cross-sectional views of an exemplary receivable device and the exemplary cup-shaped mechanism of Figure 12a in which the progression of Figures 13d-g demonstrates how receiving a receivable device can cause a shell-shaped mechanism automatically reveals a mechanism connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0415] [00415] Figures 14A to 14E show several views of a clamp according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0416] [00416] Figures 15A to 15E show different views of a clamp according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0417] [00417] Figures 16A to 16E show different views of a clamp according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; and
[0418] [00418] Figures 17A to 17D show different views of a clamp according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION CLAMP MECHANISMS
[0419] [00419] In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figures 1A to 1E, a clamp apparatus 10 is illustrated. The clamp apparatus 10 comprises a housing 12. In the embodiment shown, housing 12 has a back plate 14, which is generally flat. In a portion of the rear plate 14 is a raised grip 16 that extends in the opposite direction to the housing 12. The grip 16 supports the user's ease of movement along a clamped object 100 that generally extends along a geometric axis A1 Grip 16 is also intended to assist in driving. The grip 16 can be made from the same material as the rest of the housing 12, it can be made from a different material or it can be made from a combination of them. Possible materials may include, but are not limited to, rubber, polymer, composite, metal, plastic, foam, etc. In addition, the grip 16 can comprise ergonomic finger grooves, knots, a ribbed texture, a honeycomb texture, etc.
[0420] [00420] The rear of the rear plate 14 may also have any of a variety of mechanisms 19 (not shown) for securing a load to the clamp apparatus 10. Such mechanisms 19 may include, but are not limited to, brackets, magnets, bands, cups suction tubes, hooks, screws or bolts, a friction fit, etc. That charge can be any number of things, especially a medical device (such as an infusion pump or peristaltic infusion pump), IV bag, etc.
[0421] [00421] In the front portion of the rear plate 14, a groove 13 extends vertically down the center line (shown as a short and long dashed line) of the rear plate 14. The groove 13 is further described below. Two compression spring pockets 15 are coupled to the rear plate 14 and are raised from the bottom of the front face of the rear plate 14. The compression spring pockets 15 can in general be cylindrical and hollow like a cup. The compression spring pockets 15 will be made later.
[0422] [00422] Extending from the bottom edge of the back plate 14 towards the bottom of the pages are two double fastener structures 21 that are symmetrical around the center line of the back plate 14. The fastener structures 21 are formed in such a way that a first portion of structure 21 is a member that extends towards the bottom of the page in a manner substantially perpendicular to the bottom edge of the back plate 14. A second portion of structure 21 is a member that extends towards the bottom of the page. page in the same way as the first portion. The first and second portions are displaced to allow a cross piece to form a bridge between the first and second portions of the fastener structure 21. The cross piece of the fastener structure 21 extends in a direction substantially parallel to the bottom edge of back plate 14. Fastener structure 21 will be further elaborated later.
[0423] [00423] In the exemplary embodiment, two blocks 18 are fixedly coupled to the front of the back plate 14 by any variety of means. This could include, but is not limited to, screws 20 (as shown), dowels, welds, etc. Back plate 14 and blocks 18 can also be formed as a continuous part during manufacture. The blocks 18 are moved some distance from the back plate 14.
[0424] [00424] Blocks 18 are generally right triangles with their hypotenuses facing A1. It should be noted, however, that blocks 18 could take any shape as long as the inside face of blocks 18 extends in a suitable direction. Blocks 18 also exhibit symmetry around A1.
[0425] [00425] Along the sides facing the blocks 18 there may be rails 22. The rails 22 can engage corresponding protuberances 24 on a surface of a sliding wedge 26. These components interact in such a way that the sliding wedges 26 have the capacity to cross the span of rails 22. In the example, the sliding wedges 26 are approximately L-shaped, but this should not be interpreted as limiting sliding wedges 26 to only an "L" shape. It should also be noted that in place of the protrusions 24 on the sliding wedge 26, any other type of suitable engaging surfaces, such as spherical bearings or rollers, could be employed. In other embodiments, the rail 22 can be raised from blocks 18. In such embodiments, the protrusions 24 must be replaced by another suitable engaging surface such as a recessed groove, rollers, spherical bearings, etc. In still some additional embodiments, a rail 22 comprises the support portion of a support and pinion, the rail 22 in an elevated or lowered configuration; in place of the protrusions 24, in the sliding wedge 26, one or more pinion gears would extend so as to engage the support rail 22, in that specific modality.
[0426] [00426] On the top of both sliding wedges 26, a tongue 28 can be pivotally coupled. In the embodiment shown in Figures 1A to 1E, this is achieved by means of a pair of pins 30 (although a single pin, hinge or other suitable arrangement can also be used) that extends through openings 32 that extend through both the wedge sliding 26 as well as the tongue 28. A pin 30a pivotally engages the tongue with the sliding wedge 26 through the front surfaces of the sliding wedge 26 and the tongue 28. Also, the second 30b among the pair of pins 30 (best shown in Figure 1E) pivotally engages the tongue 28 with the sliding wedge 26 through the rear surfaces of the tongue 28 and the sliding wedge 26. The bushes 31 may also be present in some embodiments to provide a bearing surface.
[0427] [00427] In at least a portion of the tabs 28 there may be a gripping surface 34 that engages the clamped object 100. This gripping surface 34 consists of a material chosen for its gripping ability. The gripping surface 34 can be produced from a high friction material, a compressible material, a material that exhibits both of these qualities or any other suitable material. The grip surface 34 is produced from a material that allows a firm grip without the deformation of a clamped object 100. Additionally, the grip surface 34 can be contoured (as is easily seen in Figure 1B).
[0428] [00428] Best shown on the collet apparatus 10, the exploded views in Figures 1C to 1E, the bottom of the sliding wedge 26 may represent a flange 36. The flange 36 extends inward, at an angle substantially perpendicular to the axial direction A1, from the portion of the sliding wedge 26 that engages the rails 22. A gap 38 is cut into the flange 36 and will be made later.
[0429] [00429] Together, the sliding wedge 26, the tongue 28 and the gripping surface 34 comprise a tongue and slide wedge assembly 90. The tongue and slide wedge assemblies 90 have the ability to move, together as a unit, upwards and down the rail 22. This allows the gripper apparatus 10 to adjust and grasp gripped objects 100 from a variety of different circumferences such that the distance between the gripping surfaces 34 of the tongue and slide wedge assemblies 90 mimics the diameter of a clamped object 100.
[0430] [00430] The clamp apparatus 10, in this exemplary embodiment, also comprises a second set, the spring loop assembly 92. At the top of the spring loop assembly 92 is a guided support bar 50. The rear portion of the spring bar Guided support 50 has a vertical groove 52 that engages with the vertical groove 13 on the back plate 14. This restricts the guided support bar 50 to the up and down movement in the axial direction A1.
[0431] [00431] In the modality shown in Figures 1A to 1E, the central gap 54 of the guided support bar 50 arches / bends or flexes towards the rear plate 14. This allows the guided support bar 50 to better accommodate the clamped object 100.
[0432] [00432] On each of the right and left sides of the central gap 54, a member 56 can be attached, which fits around the flange 36 of the sliding wedge 26. The member 56 is formed in such a way that a first portion 900 of the member 56 extends outside the central gap 54 in a plane substantially parallel to the back plate 14. Extending from the bottom of the first portion 900 at an angle substantially perpendicular to the first portion is a second portion 901 of the member 56. That second portion 901 is formed in such a way that the edge of the second portion 901 distal to the A1 is straight and occupies the same vertical plane extended outside the distal edge of the first portion 900. The edge of the second portion 901 of the member 56 proximal to the A1 tapers in the direction to the distal edge of the second portion 901. This taper again helps to accommodate the clamped object 100. The member 56 has a third portion 902 which is attached to the second portion 901 such that the bottom of the third portion 902 is coupled attached to the front edge of the second portion 901 at an angle that is substantially perpendicular. The third portion 902 extends in a plane parallel to the first portion 900. The edge of the third portion 902 distal to A1 is straight and occupies the same vertical plane extended outside the distal edge of the first portion 900. The proximal edge of the third portion 902 is flush with the tapered proximal edge of the second portion 901 and extends upwardly therefrom in a substantially perpendicular manner.
[0433] [00433] In the exemplary embodiment in Figures 1A to 1E, the third portion 902 of the member 56 described above has a hole 66a that creates a passage through the third portion 902. Likewise, the first portion 900 also has a hole 66b that creates a passage through the first portion 900. The centers of both holes 66a, 66b extend along a common geometric axis that is substantially perpendicular to the front face of each of the first and third portions 900, 902 of member 56. The locations the holes 66a and 66b are selected in such a way that they are in line with the gaps 38 in the sliding wedges 26 when the collet apparatus 10 is mounted. Placing holes 66a and 66b in this location allows the insertion of tips 68 through which holes 66a and 66b and their corresponding gaps 38, then couple the tongue and slide wedge assemblies 90 to the spring loop assembly 92. Although the exemplary embodiments employ the use of a point 68 to couple the two sets together, other means of coupling sets, such as, but not limited to, a bar, rollers, spherical bearings, etc. could be deployed.
[0434] [00434] In the exemplary modality, when both sets 90 and 92 are coupled together, the guided support bar 50 functions as a crossbar which ensures that the right and left slide and tongue wedge sets 90 move together in unison along of the rails 22. This coupling also allows the spring handle assembly 92 to control whether the clamp apparatus 10 is in the open or closed position.
[0435] [00435] Coupled to the bottom of the second portion 901 of the members 56 a generally cylindrical shape 70 can be extended downwards (in additional embodiments, other shapes can be used). As shown in the exemplary embodiments in Figures 1A to 1E, the generally cylindrical shape 70 may taper slightly in diameter as it extends in a direction more opposite to the bottom of the second portion 901 of the member 56 towards the bottom of the page. The generally cylindrical shape 70 can be solid or hollow. A spiral spring 72 surrounds the generally cylindrical shape 70. One end of the spiral spring 72 is contiguous to the bottom of the second portion 901 of the member 56 from which the generally cylindrical shape 70 extends. The other end of the spiral spring 72 rests on the compression spring pocket 15 on the back plate 14 mentioned above. The bottom of the compression spring pocket 15 has a hole 17 through which the generally cylindrical shape 70 can pass as the clamp apparatus 10 is moved to / in the open position. Although the modalities shown use a spiral spring 72, other modalities could conceivably employ any other suitable diverter member. A wide variety of suitable bypass members can be employed. Examples of suitable bypass members include, but are not limited to, a pneumatic spring using a bladder, a piston-like arrangement, a compression spring made of a compressible and elastic material such as rubber, an extension spring, a force spring constant, etc.
[0436] [00436] In the exemplary embodiment, the spiral springs 72 deflect the clamp apparatus 10 towards the closed position (as shown in Figure 1B). That is, the spiral springs 72 deflect the wedges 26 to slide the rails 22 upwards in such a way that the tongues 28 approach each other towards the clamped object 100 (for example, a mast). In the closed position, the tongue and slide wedge assemblies 90 are sufficiently at the top of the rails 22 to clamp the tongues 28 on the clamped object 100 (by means of fixed clamping surfaces 34). The guided support bar 50 is also in a higher position in the vertical groove 13 on the back plate 14. Also in this position, the coupling tip 68, in relation to the A1, is located at a more distal end of the gap 38 on the flange 36 of the sliding wedge 26.
[0437] [00437] If a clamped object 100 is present in the exemplary mode, the spiral springs 72 deflect the clamping apparatus 10 to clamp the object 100. Depending on the size of the clamped object 100, the tongue and sliding wedge sets' 90 locations in the rail 22 will vary so that the distance between the tongue and slide wedge 90 sets mimics the diameter of the clamped object 100. The larger the clamped object 100, the smaller the tongue and slide wedge 90 sets on rail 22. Similar and consequently, the location of the guided support bar 50 along the groove 13 will be smaller with larger clamped objects 100.
[0438] [00438] The clamping apparatus 10 in the exemplary mode is designed in such a way as to use the force of gravity to increase the clamping force. As gravity pulls the gripper, specifically when a load is attached to the back plate 14, a force is exerted on the slide and tongue wedge assemblies 90. This force causes the tongue and slide wedge assemblies 90 to travel further to up the rails 22. Once the clamped object 100 is in the path, the slide and tongue wedge assemblies 90 lock and exert more clamping force on the clamped object 100. Additionally, due to the fact that the tabs 28 are pivotally coupled to the sliding wedge 26, the pull of gravity makes the contact point on the tongues 28 want to oscillate upwards and into the clamped object 100. Once the clamped object 100 is in the way, the tongues 28 block and exert more force of clamping on the clamped object 100.
[0439] [00439] In order to move the clamping apparatus 10 to the open position, a handle 74 can be pulled down. In the exemplary embodiment, handle 74 comprises a grip 76 and one or more columns 78 that extend from grip 76. Handle 76 can be produced from the same material as the rest of handle 74, can be produced from a different material or can be produced from a combination of them. Possible materials may include, but are not limited to, rubber, polymer, composite, metal, plastic, foam, etc. In addition, handle 74 can comprise ergonomic finger grooves, knots, a ribbed texture, a honeycomb texture, etc.
[0440] [00440] The one or more columns 78 of handle 74 extends to a corresponding number of arms 80 on the guided support bar 50. The columns 78 are coupled to the arms 80 on the guided support bar 50 by any of a variety of means . In the exemplary embodiment, coupling is achieved by means of a pin that extends through both between the arm 80 and the column 78. In other embodiments, this coupling can be achieved in any number of suitable ways that include, but are not limited to, welds, dowels, screws, etc. The handle 74 and the guided support bar 50 could also be produced as a single continuous part during manufacture. In some embodiments, the columns 78 extend straight down to the grip 76. In other embodiments, the columns 78 can be arched or flexed out towards the back of the page to allow for greater ease in holding the grip 76. Additionally, in some embodiments, including the exemplary embodiment, the columns 78 have a slot 82 that extends through the rear of the columns 78 in a direction substantially parallel to the bottom edge of the rear plate 14.
[0441] [00441] As mentioned earlier, to move the clamping apparatus 10 to the open position, a handle 74 can be pulled down. In the exemplary embodiment, as the handle 74 is pulled down, the guided support bar 50 is also pulled down from the groove 13 in the back plate 14. This causes the compression springs 72 to become compacted and causes the generally cylindrical shape 70 extends through hole 17 in the compression spring pockets 15. Pulling down the handle 74 also causes the slide tongue and wedge assemblies 90 to slide under the rails 22. Due to the inclination of the rails 22, moving the clamping apparatus 10 to the open position also causes the location of the coupling tip 68 in the gap 38 to change. When the clamp is in the fully open position, the coupling tip 68 is at the most proximal end of the gap 38 in relation to A1.
[0442] [00442] In the exemplary embodiment, to hold the clamping apparatus 10 in the fully open position against the restoring force of the compression springs 72, the slot 82 in the handle 74 can be engaged with the fastener structure 21 which extends outside the plate rear 14. When the clamping device 10 is locked in the open position, the cross piece 903 of the fastener structure 21 is secured by the slot 82 of the handle 74, thus rejecting that the compression springs 72 return the clamping device 10 to the closed position. Other modalities may employ other types of fastener mechanisms in addition to the elbow type fastener in the exemplary mode. Other suitable fasteners may include, but are not limited to, a magnetic fastener, a spherical fastener, a fastener, a roller fastener, etc.
[0443] [00443] In another embodiment, as shown in Figures 2A to 2E, a clamp device 110 is illustrated. The clamp apparatus 110 comprises a housing 112. The housing 112 resembles a housing. The housing 112 comprises an upper handle 114 at the top of the housing 112. In the example, the upper handle 114 is essentially "U" in shape with the bottom grip portion 116 of the "U" extended towards the back of the page ( directions given in relation to the modality illustrated in Figure 2A). In other embodiments, the upper handle 114 need not take the shape of a "U", but, preferably, any other desirable shape. The grip portion 116 of the upper handle 114 can be cylindrical, flat or can take any other desired shape. The grip portion 116 of the upper handle 114 can also have gentle ergonomic finger grooves, knots, a ribbed texture, a honeycomb texture, etc. 118 (not shown) to increase ease of use. The grip portion 116 may be produced from the same material as the rest of the upper loop 114, may be produced from a different material, or may be produced from a combination thereof. Possible materials may include, but are not limited to, rubber, polymer, composite, metal, plastic, foam, etc.
[0444] [00444] In the exemplary embodiment, the vertical parts 113 of the "U" extend from the grip portion 116 towards the front of the page. The vertical parts 113 of the "U" each comprise a set of brackets 115 that extend substantially perpendicularly from the faces of the vertical parts 113 most proximal to the A2 towards the A2.
[0445] [00445] The housing 112 in the exemplary embodiment also comprises one or more members 120 extending from the upper handle 114. In the embodiment shown in Figures 2A to 2E, two substantially flat members 120 extend downwards in parallel from the upper handle 114 at an angle that is generally perpendicular to the bottom surface of the upper handle 114. The members 120 can be attached to the upper handle 114 with screws 122 (as best shown in Figures 2C to 2E), bolts, welds or through any other way. The upper handle 114 and one or more vertical members 120 can also be formed as a single part during manufacture. The members 120 may also comprise tracks 123 on the faces of the most proximal members 120 of A2. In the exemplary embodiment, the rails 123 extend vertically upward from the face of each member 120, although this is not necessarily true for each embodiment. Additionally, in the exemplary embodiment, the rails 123 are cut off at the members 120. In other embodiments, the rails can be raised from the members 120.
[0446] [00446] The housing 112 may also comprise a lower handle 124. In the exemplary embodiment, the lower handle 124 is attached to the bottom edges of the members 120. The lower handle 124 can be attached to the members 120 in any of a variety of ways which include screws 126, dowels, welds, etc. (as best shown in Figures 2C to 2E). The lower handle 124 can also be formed with the members 120 as a single continuous part during manufacture. In other embodiments, the upper handle 116, the members 120 and the lower handle 124 are all formed as a continuous part in manufacturing. Transposing the distance between the members 120, the lower handle 124 can comprise a cross piece 128. The central gap 129 of the cross piece 128 can bend / bend or flex towards the back of the page to better accommodate a clamped object 100. The piece The cross-sectional 128 may also comprise a pair of compression spring pockets 105. The compression spring pockets 105 can, in general, be cylindrical and hollow like a cup. In the exemplary embodiment, the bottom of the compression spring pockets 105 has an opening 117. A pair of brackets 130 extends outside the bottom of the crosspiece 128 and will be made later. The crosspiece 128 may have recessed portions 131 that span the distance between the distal sides of the compression spring pockets 105 (in relation to A2) and the arms 132 of the lower handle 124 (elaborated in the following paragraph).
[0447] [00447] The lower handle 124 extends towards the back of the page in a similar way to the upper handle 114. The arms 132 of the lower handle 124 can be arched or have a flexion that arches / flexes the lower handle 124 towards the bottom from page. The arms 132 of the lower handle 124 are joined by a grip 134 on the part of the handle nearest the bottom of the page.
[0448] [00448] Grip 134 may be produced from the same material as the rest of the lower loop 124, may be produced from a different material or may be produced from a combination thereof. Possible materials may include, but are not limited to, rubber, polymer, composite, metal, plastic, foam, etc. In addition, the grip 134 may comprise ergonomic finger grooves, knots, a ribbed texture, a honeycomb texture, etc.
[0449] [00449] Housing 112 may also have any of a variety of mechanisms 119 (not shown) for attaching a load to the clamp apparatus 110. Such mechanisms 119 may include, but are not limited to, brackets, magnets, bands, suction cups, hooks, screws or bolts, a friction fit, etc. That charge can be any number of things, especially a medical device (such as an infusion pump or peristaltic infusion pump), IV bag, etc.
[0450] [00450] The clamping apparatus 110 may additionally comprise a set of tabs 127 which are pivotally coupled to brackets 115 of the upper loop 116. The set of tabs 127 can be coupled to brackets 115 of the upper loop through any one of a variety of modes. In addition, bushes 133 may be present to provide a bearing surface. The tabs 127 may have a recess 136 cut in them essentially along the central plane of the tabs 127 which extend parallel to the plane of the grip 116 shown in the exemplary embodiment. The recess 136 will be elaborated later.
[0451] [00451] In at least a portion of the tabs 127 there may be a gripping surface 135 that engages the clamped object 100. The gripping surface 135 may consist of a material chosen for its gripping ability. The gripping surface 135 could be produced from a high friction material, a compressible material, a material that exhibits both of these qualities or any other suitable material. The grip surface 135 is produced from a material that allows a firm grip without the deformation of a clamped object 100. Additionally, the grip surface 135 can be contoured. Although the exemplary embodiment includes a single set of tabs 127, in other embodiments, additional sets of tabs 127 can be added to the clamping apparatus 110 to support the added stability of clamping apparatus 110.
[0452] [00452] In the exemplary embodiment, the clamping device 110 also comprises a support bar guide 140. The support bar guide 140 comprises a set of protuberances 141 that engage with the rails 123 on the members 120. This allows the support bar guide 140 travels along the rail 123 on the members 120. In place of the protrusions 141, some alternative modalities employ a variety of different engaging surfaces. These surfaces include, but are not limited to, rollers, spherical bearings, etc. In other embodiments, the rail 123 can be raised from the members 120. In such embodiments, the protrusions 141 would be replaced by another suitable engaging surface such as a recessed groove, rollers, spherical bearings, etc. It would also be conceivable for some modalities to use a rail 123, whether the same is raised or lowered, which comprises the support portion of a support and pinion. In place of the protrusions 141, on the support bar guide 140, one or more pinion gears would extend so as to engage the support rail 123.
[0453] [00453] The top portion of the support bar guide 140 may comprise a set of fins 142 which project inwardly towards the A2. The fins 142 are shaped in such a way that they have the capacity to fit in the recess 136 in the tongues 127. The fins 142 have a crack 144 cut in them (better shown in Figures 2C to 2E) similar to the gap 38 shown in the Figures 1A to 1E. A coupling tip 168 couples the tabs 127 to the support bar guide 140 through the gap 144 in the fins 142. The support bar guide 140 has a crossbar 146. This allows the support bar guide 140 to make tongues 127 move in unison. The central gap 148 of the crossbar 146 can be arched / flexed towards the back of the page to better accommodate a clamped object 100.
[0454] [00454] On each side of the central arcuate gap 148, the recessed compression spring pockets 150 are recessed to the bottom face of the support bar guide 140. From the centers of the recessed compression spring pockets 150 a generally shaped cylindrical 170 extends (although the format does not need to be cylindrical in all modalities) towards the bottom of the page. The generally cylindrical shape 170 can be solid or hollow. The generally cylindrical shape 170 can taper slightly in diameter as it extends in the opposite direction to the bottom face of the support bar guide 140. The diameter of the generally cylindrical shape 170 is such that it occupies a part of the center of the pocket. recessed compression spring 150, but leaves a ring surrounding the base of the generally cylindrical shape 170. One end of a spiral spring 172 is sealed in the ring surrounding the generally cylindrical shape 170 in the recessed compression spring pocket 150. The other end of the spiral spring 172 adjoins the bottom of the compression spring pocket 105 in the lower handle 124 mentioned above. The bottom of the compression spring pocket 105 has a hole 117 through which the generally cylindrical shape 170 can pass as the clamp apparatus 110 is moved to / in the open position. Although the embodiments shown use a spiral spring 172, other embodiments could conceivably employ any other suitable deviation member configuration. A wide variety of suitable diversion members could be employed. Examples of suitable bypass members include, but are not limited to, a pneumatic spring using a bladder, piston-like arrangement, a compression spring made of a compressible and elastic material such as rubber, an extension spring, constant force spring, steel spring, etc.
[0455] [00455] In the modality shown, more distal from A2 than the lowered compression spring pockets 150, a set of brackets 152 extends downwards on each side of the bottom face of the support bar guide 140. In some embodiments, the placement of the lowered compression spring pockets 150 or other suitable bypass structure and the brackets 152 can be alternated. Coupled to the brackets 152 in the support bar guide 140, there may be a connection structure 154. In the exemplary embodiments, the connection structure 154 is a generally oblong disc with rounded edges. In other embodiments, the connection structure 154 can take other shapes or formats. Examples of connection structures 154 in other possible embodiments may include, but are not limited to, prismatic joints, any of a variety of springs, etc. It should also be conceivable to refrain from brackets 152 while attaching a cam-actuated surface to the actuator lever handle 156 (introduced in the following paragraph) effectively making the support bar guide 140 a cam follower.
[0456] [00456] In the exemplary embodiment, the other end of the connection structure 154 is coupled to an actuator lever handle 156. The actuator lever handle 156 has a set of members 158. One end of the members 158 can be fitted with brackets 159 which allow members 158 to couple with connection structure 154 as shown in the exemplary embodiment. From their point of coupling to the connection structure 154, the members 158 can extend and are coupled to the brackets 130 that protrude from the bottom face of the cross piece 128 of the lower handle 124. In some embodiments, a spring of torsion can be employed where the members 158 of the actuator lever handle 156 engage the brackets 130 of the cross piece 128. The torsion spring can be a substitute for the spiral spring 172 or other suitable deflection structure or can be used in together with it. From their coupling point on the crosspiece 128 the brackets 130, the members 158 arch / curve or flex in an inclined downward manner. In exemplary embodiments, members 158 flex at an almost right angle, although other suitable angles can be used. A grip portion 160 crosses the distance between the lower extremities of the limbs 158.
[0457] [00457] The gripping portion 160 can be produced from the same material as the rest of the lower loop 156, it can be produced from a different material or it can be produced from a combination thereof. Possible materials may include, but are not limited to, rubber, polymer, composite, metal, plastic, foam, etc. In addition, the grip portion 160 may comprise ergonomic finger grooves, knots, a ribbed texture, a honeycomb texture, etc.
[0458] [00458] In the exemplary embodiment, the spiral springs 172 deflect the clamping device 110 towards the closed position. In the closed position, the support bar guide 140 is at the highest point of the path along the rails 123 on the members 120. The tongues 127 are rotated upwards and inwards towards A2. Also in the closed position, the coupling tip 168 is at the bottom of the crack 144 in the fins 142 of the support bar guide 140.
[0459] [00459] If a clamped object 100 is present in the exemplary mode, the spiral springs 172 deflect the clamp apparatus 110 to clamp the object 100. Depending on the size of the clamped object 100, the location of the support bar guide 140 on the rail 123 will vary. The larger the clamped object 100, the smaller the support bar guide 140 on rail 123 will be. In addition, the tabs 127 will not be fully rotated upwards and inwards towards the A2. Instead, the distance between the gripping surfaces 135 of the tabs 127 will mimic the diameter of the clamped object 100. This also means that the location of the coupling tip 168 will be somewhat closer to the top of the crack 144.
[0460] [00460] The clamp apparatus 110 in the exemplary mode is designed in such a way as to use the force of gravity to increase the clamping force. As gravity pulls the gripper device 110, specifically when a load is attached to the housing 112 the force causes the tongues 127 to rotate more towards the A2. Once the clamped object 100 is in the path, the pressure of the tabs 127 against the clamped object 100 increases and the clamping apparatus 110 grips the clamped object 100 more vigorously.
[0461] [00461] To open the clamp apparatus 110 in the exemplary mode, a user's hand can reach around the lower handle 124 and hold the actuator lever handle 156 with their fingers. The user can then pull the actuator lever handle 156 towards the lower handle 124 of the housing 112. This causes the actuator lever handle 156 to pivot around its coupling until the brackets 130 in the cross piece 128 of the lower handle 124. This successively pulls down the link structure 154 that couples the actuator lever handle 156 to the support bar guide 140. As the link structure 154 is pulled down, the bar guide support 140 travels along the rails 123 below in the members 120 of the housing 112. As the support bar guide 140 travels downwards, the compression springs 172 are compressed and the generally cylindrical shape 170 extends through the hole 117 in the pockets compression spring 105 in the crosspiece 128 of the lower handle 124. The downward travel of the support bar guide 140 also causes the tabs 127 to rotate downwards and in the opposite direction to the A2. This is caused by the crack 144 in the fins 142 of the support bar guide 140 that slide over the coupling tip 168 until the coupling tip 168 reaches the top of the crack 144. When the coupling tip 168 is in that position, the tabs 127 are fully open. The clamp apparatus 110 can then be placed on a clamped object 100. Once the actuator lever handle 156 is released, the compression springs 172 will deflect the clamp apparatus 110 to close and clamp the clamped object 100 down.
[0462] [00462] In other embodiments, as shown in Figures 3A to 3E, a clamp device 202 is illustrated. The clamp apparatus 202 comprises a housing 204. Housing 204 comprises numerous portions. The first portion of the housing 204 can include a back plate 206. The back plate 206 can be substantially flat as shown in Figures 3A to 3E.
[0463] [00463] The rear plate 206 may also include a grip handle 208 (not shown). The grip portion 209 of the grip handle 208 can be made from the same material as the rest of the handle 208, can be made from a different material, or can be made from a combination thereof. Possible materials may include, but are not limited to, rubber, polymer, composite, metal, plastic, foam, etc. In addition, the grip portion 209 of the grip handle 208 may comprise ergonomic finger grooves, knots, a ribbed texture, a honeycomb texture, etc.
[0464] [00464] Additionally, the rear plate 206 can also have any of a variety of mechanisms or assemblies 219 to allow the user to attach a load to the clamp apparatus 202. Such mechanisms 219 may include, but are not limited to, brackets, magnets, bands , suction cups, hooks, screws or bolts, a friction fit, etc. That charge can be any number of things, especially a medical device (such as an infusion pump or peristaltic infusion pump), IV bag, etc.
[0465] [00465] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 3A to 3E, on the right side of the front face of the rear plate 206 a rectangular block 212 projects at an angle substantially perpendicular to the front face of the rear plate 206. The rectangular block 212 does not have to be rectangular in all modalities. The rectangular block 212 is coupled to the rear plate 206 in any of a variety of ways. The exemplary embodiment employs screws 216, but dowels, welds or any other suitable modes could be used as well. The back plate 206 and the rectangular block 212 could also be formed as a continuous part during manufacture. The rectangular block 212 can be generally flat. The rectangular block 212 can also be arched / curved to better accommodate a clamped object 100.
[0466] [00466] On at least part of the side facing the rectangular block 212, a gripping surface 214 can be affixed. The gripping surface 214 can engage the clamped object 100. This gripping surface 214 consists of a material chosen for its gripping ability. The gripping surface 214 could be produced from a high friction material, a compressible material, a material that exhibits both of these qualities or any other suitable material. The grip surface 214 is produced from a material that allows a firm grip without the deformation of a clamped object 100. Additionally, the grip surface 214 can be contoured (as shown in Figures 3C to 3E). In order to accommodate the contoured grip surface 214 the inner face of the rectangular block 212 can also be contoured. Although the exemplary embodiments have only a fixed grip surface 214, it would be conceivable to add additional fixed grip surfaces to the grip apparatus 202.
[0467] [00467] Housing 204 may also comprise a second portion. The second portion of the housing may include a handle sleeve 218. In the exemplary embodiment, the handle sleeve 218 comprises a body that can be entirely hollow (as shown) or have one or more hollow cavities. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 3A to 3E, the top and a portion of the right side of the handle sleeve 218 are open to a hollow cavity. In alternative modalities, this is not always the case. At the top of the handle glove 218 two rounded ears 220 protrude from the front and rear faces of the handle glove 218 towards the right of the page.
[0468] [00468] A portion of the handle sleeve 218 may have the grip portion 222 to allow for more ease of use. The grip portion 222 can be produced from the same material as the rest of housing 204, it can be produced from a different material, or it can be produced from a combination thereof. Possible materials may include, but are not limited to, rubber, polymer, composite, metal, plastic, foam, etc. In addition, the grip portion 222 may comprise ergonomic finger grooves, knots, a ribbed texture, a honeycomb texture, etc.
[0469] [00469] In the exemplary embodiment, at least one or both of the inside of the front or / and rear faces of the handle sleeve 218 near the left face of the handle sleeve 218 are rails 223 that extend at least some portion of the length of handle sleeve 218. In the embodiment in Figures 3A to 3E, the rails 223 are elevated and extend vertically. Other modalities may differ. For example, it would be conceivable to have a track 223 recessed in the glove handle. The track (s) 223 can also be cut or lifted out of the inside of the left side of the handle sleeve 218. In some embodiments, the track 223 can be the support of a rack layout.
[0470] [00470] On the left side of the inner cavity, one or more pockets of compression spring 215 can be extended in a hollow cavity, as best shown in Figure 3B. The compression spring pocket (s) 215 can also be extended from at least one or both of the inside of the front and / or rear faces of the handle sleeve 218. The (s) compression spring pocket (s) 215 will be (will) be elaborated later.
[0471] [00471] At the top of the handle sleeve 218, a tongue 227 can be pivotally coupled. The tongue 227 can be pivotally coupled by any of a variety of means such as a screw 233 (as shown), pins, etc. In addition, bushes 231 may be present to provide a bearing surface. The tongue 227 has the ability to swing around its pivot geometric axis point in the cavity in the handle sleeve 218. The tongue 227 also has the ability to swing around its pivot outward towards the fixed grip surface 214 on the inner face of rectangular block 212.
[0472] [00472] The surface of the tongue 227 facing the fixed grip surface 214 on the inner face of the rectangular block 212 can be arched as best shown in Figure 3C. The surface of the tongue 227 facing the fixed gripping surface 214 on the inner face of the rectangular block 212 may additionally comprise a gripping surface 237. The gripping surface 237 could be produced from a high-friction material, a material liable to compression, a material that exhibits both of these qualities, or any other suitable material. The grip surface 237 is produced from a material that allows a firm grip without the deformation of a clamped object 100. Additionally, the grip surface 237 can be contoured (as best shown in Figures 3A to 3E).
[0473] [00473] The tongue 227 can be further comprised by a recess 239 cut in the tongue 227 essentially along the central plane of the tongue 227 which extends parallel to the plane of the back plate 206. The recess 239 is shaped in such a way that it has the capacity to accommodate the shape of a support bar 241. As best shown in Figures 3C to 3E, the support bar 241 can comprise a first portion comprising a member 224 projecting into the recess 239 on the tongue 227. The member 224 can be shaped in such a way that at the right end of the member 224 there is a projection of the fin type 243. In the projection of the fin type 243, there may be a crack 245. It should be noted that the structure of the crack 144 in Figures 2A to 2E is in a angle and the crack 245 in Figures 3A 3E is substantially horizontal. The alternative modalities can employ cracks oriented at any angle or they can employ arcuate cracks. A coupling tip 268 extends through the crack 245 and into the tongue 227 coupling the support bar 241 to the tongue 227.
[0474] [00474] The support bar 241 may also comprise a second portion in which a member 226 extends towards the bottom of the page at an angle that is substantially perpendicular to the member 224 of the first portion. The member 226 of the second portion has an engaging surface 228 which engages with the rail 223 within the handle sleeve 218. In the embodiment shown, the engaging surface 228 is depicted as a recessed groove. The engaging surface 228 may, however, be raised or take other shapes, including, but not limited to, rollers, spherical bearings, etc. In embodiments where the rail 223 is the support of a rack arrangement, one or more pinion gears capable of engaging the rail 223 may be present in the member 226 of the second portion.
[0475] [00475] The member 226 of the second portion of the support bar 241 may also have a bracket 230 that extends outside the bottom surface of the member 226. The bracket 230 need not extend as shown at an angle substantially perpendicular to the bottom surface of member 226.
[0476] [00476] The member 226 of the second portion of the support bar 241 can also be comprised of a recessed groove or grooves 232 on the face of the member 226 which is close to the inner surface of the handle sleeve 218 from which the pocket (s) compression spring (s) 215 extends (m). The groove 232 is of a size and shape sufficient to fit around the compression spring pocket 215 that protrudes outside the interior of the handle sleeve 218. Additionally, the groove 232 does not extend the entire length of the member 226 that stops at least some distance from the top of the member 226. As shown, the diameter of the groove 232 can taper as it extends towards the top of the member 226.
[0477] [00477] A spiral spring 272 is placed in groove 232 such that one end of spiral spring 272 is close to the bottom of the compression spring pocket 215. The other end of spiral spring 272 is close to the top of the groove 232. Although the modalities shown use a spiral spring 272, other modalities could conceivably employ any other suitable bypass member. A wide variety of suitable bypass members can be employed. Examples of suitable bypass members include, but are not limited to, a pneumatic spring (which uses a bladder arrangement, piston-like arrangement, etc.), a compression spring made of a compressible and elastic material such as rubber, a spring of compression extension, constant force spring and so on.
[0478] [00478] In the exemplary embodiment, the spiral spring 272 deflects the clamp device 202 towards the closed position (Figure 3A). In the closed position, the spiral spring 272 is not compacted. Additionally, the support bar 241 is at the highest point of the path along the rails 223 in the handle sleeve 218 of the housing 112. Since the support bar 241 is coupled to the tongue 227 by means of the coupling tip 268, this forces the tongue 227 to be pivoted upwards and towards the fixed grip surface 214. In the closed position, the coupling tip 268 is close to the right edge of the crack 245.
[0479] [00479] If a clamped object 100 is present in the exemplary mode, the spiral spring 272 deflects the clamp device 202 to clamp the object 100. Depending on the size of the clamped object 100, the location of the support bar 241 on the rail 223 will vary. The larger the clamped object 100, the smaller the support bar 241 on the rail 223. Additionally, the tongue 227 will not be fully rotated upwards and inwards towards the fixed grip surface 214. Instead, the distance between the grip 237 of tongue 227 and the fixed grip surface 214 will mimic the diameter of the clamped object 100. This also means that the location of the coupling tip 268 will be somewhat closer to the left of crack 245.
[0480] [00480] The clamp apparatus 202 in the exemplary mode is designed in such a way as to use the force of gravity to increase the clamping force. As gravity pulls the clamp device 202, specifically when a load is attached to the housing 204, the force causes the tongue 227 to rotate further towards the fixed grip surface 214. Once the clamped object 100 is in the In the way, the pressure of the tongue 227 against the clamped object 100 increases and the clamping apparatus 202 grasps the clamped object 100 more vigorously. In addition, the clamped object 100 is pushed against the fixed gripping surface 214 with greater force which causes the clamping device 202 to more vigorously pinch the clamped object 100.
[0481] [00481] This more vigorous clamping force is achieved by ensuring that tongue 227 is constructed and molded to ensure that clamp apparatus 202 is in static balance with a clamped object 100 when clamp apparatus 202 is clamped in a clamped object 100. This may require ensuring that the friction coefficient of the tongue 227 is greater than the ratio of the vertical distance from the contact point of the tongue 227 on the clamped object 100 to the pivot point of the tongue 227 (said distance it is hereinafter referred to as A) for the horizontal distance from the contact point on the tongue 227 to the pivot point of the tongue 227 (said distance is hereinafter referred to as B). The conformity and shape of the tongue 227, the gripping surface 237 of the tongue 227 is also sufficiently configured.
[0482] [00482] As shown, the tongue 227 does not have a constant radius from the grip surface 237 to the pivot point of the tongue 227. If the radius is constant and the tongue 227, the grip surface 237 or both are relatively compatible, A: B can become less than zero if the tongue 227, the gripping surface 237, or both become compacted. If the radius of tongue 227 increases constantly, as best shown in Figure 3C, it does not. The rate of increase in the radius of the tongue 227 can be chosen so that the A: B ratio does not become too large. This can be done to ensure that the friction coefficient is not unusually large.
[0483] [00483] In modes of the tongue 227 in which the radius of the tongue 227 is constantly increasing and the tongue 227, the gripping surface 237 or both are compatible, as the downward force of gravity acting on the clamp apparatus 202 increases the reason, A: B decreases. As a result, the normal forces present at the contact point of the tongue 227 on the clamped object 100 increase. The vertical reaction force increases as a result. This can create the most vigorous clamping force described above.
[0484] [00484] To move the clamp apparatus 202 to the open position shown in the embodiment in Figure 3B, the user must actuate a trigger 234. The trigger 234 has a portion of button 236 that extends at least partially out of the right face of the handle sleeve 218 when the clamp apparatus 202 is in the closed position. Towards the lower right of the button portion 236, the button portion 236 is pivotally coupled to the handle sleeve 218 by any of a variety of means. The button portion 236 can be hollow or solid. Projecting towards the left of the page along the bottom of the button portion 236 of the trigger 234 can be one or more arms 238. The one or more arms 238 may have the ability to couple with a link structure 240 The connection structure 240 also extends to the bracket 230, and is coupled to it, which extends outside the bottom surface of the support bar 241. As best seen in Figures 3C to 3E, the connection structure 240 in the mode example is an oblong with rounded edges. In other embodiments, the connection structure 240 can take other shapes or formats. Examples of connecting structures 240 in other possible embodiments may include, but are not limited to, prismatic joints, any of a variety of springs, etc. It should also be conceivable to refrain from brackets 230 while attaching a cam-actuated surface to the trigger 234 effectively making the support bar 214 a cam follower.
[0485] [00485] In the exemplary mode, when the trigger 234 is actuated, it acts as a lever that pulls the connection structure 240 and the support bar 241 towards the bottom of the page. As the support bar 241 is pulled down on the rail 223 in the handle sleeve 218 the spiral spring 272 becomes compacted. The crack 245 in the fin 243 of the support bar 241 slides over the coupling tip 268 until the coupling tip 268 is close to the leftmost edge of the crack 245. As a result, the tongue 227 rotates downwards and in the opposite direction to the fixed grip surface 214 and to the open position. Releasing the trigger 234 causes the gripping device 202 to return to the closed position as a result of the restoring force of the spiral spring 272. In alternative embodiments, a torsion spring can be employed where the button portion 236 of the trigger 234 it is pivotally coupled to the handle sleeve 218. The torsion spring can be a substitute for the spiral spring 272 or other suitable bypass structure or other suitable bypass member configuration.
[0486] [00486] Figure 4A shows a perspective view of a clamp apparatus 310 in the open position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. A clamped object 100 can be squeezed between a fixed gripper 322 and a sliding gripper 302. The fixed gripper 322 and the sliding gripper 302 can consist of a material chosen because of its gripping ability. The fixed gripper 322 and the sliding gripper 302 can be produced from a material that allows a firm grip without the deformation of a clamped object 100. The fixed gripper 322 and the sliding gripper 302 can be produced from a high-grade material. friction, a material that can be compressed, a material that exhibits both of these qualities, or any other suitable material. Suitable materials can include any suitable elastomeric or non-deformable substance, including, but not limited to, plastic, rubber, metal, foam, fabric, gel, etc. At least a portion of the fixed grip 322 and the slide grip 302 may comprise an approximately semicircular depression or contour to accommodate a round clamped object 100, such as a mast.
[0487] [00487] In some embodiments, the fixed grip 322 and the slide grip 302 are formed from a relatively inelastic material, but have covers 330 (not shown) that substantially fit over the fixed grip 322 and the slide grip 302. A cover 330 can be constructed from any suitable material that includes, but is not limited to, elastic materials such as rubber, plastic, gel, foam, fabric, polyurethane, etc. Lids 330 can be replaceable and removably attached to fixed grip 322 and sliding grip 302.
[0488] [00488] The fixed gripper 322 can be securely mounted to the fixed gripper mounting end 344 of a guide plate 340. In some embodiments, a gripper support wall 352 is attached to the fixed gripper mounting end 344 of the guide plate 340 and provides additional support to the fixed gripper 322. The gripper support wall 352 can optionally be supported by one or more reinforcements 354 that transpose at least a portion of the guide plate 340 to the gripper support wall 352. In In some embodiments, the 354 reinforcements can be bent to maximize support.
[0489] [00489] At least one face of the guide plate 340 may also have any of a variety of mechanisms 305 (not shown) for securing a load to the clamp apparatus 310. Such mechanisms 305 may include, but are not limited to, brackets, magnets , strips, suction cups, hooks, screws or bolts, a friction fit, etc. That charge can be any number of things, especially a medical device (such as an infusion pump or peristaltic infusion pump), IV bag, etc.
[0490] [00490] The slide handle 302 is mounted to the slide handle assembly end 332 of a slide handle base 320. The position of the slide handle base 320 is adjustable to accommodate clamped objects 100 of various dimensions and circumferences. The sliding grip base 320 will be developed later.
[0491] [00491] In one embodiment of the present disclosure shown in Figure 4A, the clamp apparatus 310 is illustrated in the closed position (although a clamped object 100 is not present). To move the gripper apparatus 310 to the closed position, a user must rotate a handle assembly 319 such that the hand grip 321 of the handle assembly 319 is pointing towards the left of the page as shown in Figure 4A. This action drives the sliding gripper 302 and all fixed structures towards the fixed gripper 322. If a clamped object 100 is present, the sliding gripper 302 will squeeze the clamped object 100 against the fixed gripper 322 thereby clamping the clamped object 100 .
[0492] [00492] The handle set 319 is swiveled to the front face 350 of the guide plate 340. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 4A to 4D, the handle set 319 is arranged in a plane approximately parallel to the plane of the front face 350 of the guide plate 340 regardless of whether the clamp apparatus 310 is in the open or closed position or in transit between an open or closed position. The handle assembly 319 comprises numerous portions. At least a portion of the handle assembly 319 is close to a cam plate 360, which is immovably attached to a pressure plate 370 (pressure plate 370 introduced in the following paragraphs). In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figures 4A to 4D, the handle assembly 319 comprises a cam 362 positioned to make contact with the cam plate 360. The rounded and contoured surface of the cam 362 is classified in a flat section that crosses the length of the grip manual 321.
[0493] [00493] In some embodiments, the manual grip 321 can be produced from the same material as the rest of the handle set 319, it can be produced from a different material or it can be produced from a combination of them. Possible materials may include, but are not limited to, rubber, polymer, composite, metal, plastic, foam, etc. The 321 handgrip can also comprise ergonomic finger grooves, knots, a ribbed texture, a honeycomb texture, etc. to facilitate grabbing.
[0494] [00494] Additionally, as shown in the exemplary embodiment in Figures 4A to 4D, the cam 362 can include at least one flat segment 363. The clockwise rotation of the handle assembly 319 causes the cam 362 to rotate on the cam plate 360 This moves the cam plate 360 towards the fixed grip 322. In the closed position, the cam 362 is fully rotated on the cam plate 360 and the flat segment 363 of the cam 362 is close to the right edge (in relation to Figure 4A) of the cam plate 360. Additionally, in the fully closed position, the flat surface of the hand grip 321 can rest against the bottom edge of the cam plate 360. The flat segment 363 of cam 362 prevents the restoring force of a spring compacted return valve 346 (whose spring carries the cam plate 360) push the cam plate 360 back to the open position and then you can effectively lock the clamp apparatus 310 in the closed position.
[0495] [00495] To open the clamp 310, a user rotates the handle assembly 319 counterclockwise. As the cam 362 releases pressure on the cam plate 360, the compacted return spring 346 causes the cam plate 360 to automatically return back to the open position as the return spring 346 expands back to a relatively uncompressed state
[0496] [00496] In the open position (not shown) the cam plate 360 rests against the right edge (with reference to Figure 4A) of a groove 342 on the guide plate 340. The groove 342 is cut through the placebo 340 at an angle which is substantially perpendicular to the front face 350 of the guide plate 340. At the left vertical edge of the slot 342 a return spring screw 343 can project in the slot 342 in a direction substantially parallel to the plane of the front face 350 of the guide plate 340 The return spring die 343 is slightly smaller in diameter than the return spring 346. The return spring 346 can be seated around the return spring die 343 (as shown in Figure 4A). In the open position, the return spring 346 can be slightly compacted to prevent any "tipping" and to hold the cam plate 360 against the right edge of the groove 342.
[0497] [00497] The cam plate 360 is immovably coupled to a pressure plate 370. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 4A to 4E, the cam plate is coupled to the pressure plate 370 by means of screws 361. In other embodiments , the cam plate 360 and the pressure plate 370 can be coupled together in a number of ways including, without limitation, through welds, dowels, rivets, etc. In some embodiments, they can be formed as a continuous part during manufacture.
[0498] [00498] Since the cam plate 360 is attached to the pressure plate 370, the pressure plate 370 also moves as the cam 362 of the handle assembly 319 displaces the cam plate 360. When the return spring 346 expands as the clamp apparatus 310 is opened, the pressure plate 370 is also spring loaded to automatically return towards its open orientation. When the clamp apparatus 310 is fully open, the pressure plate 370 can be approximately flush with the right edge of the guide plate 340 (with reference to Figure 4A). In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 4A to 4E, the pressure plate 370 may not extend outwardly past the right edge of the guide plate 340 due to the fact that the cam plate 360 to which it is immovably attached is restricted in motion by the right edge of the groove 342 on the guide plate 340.
[0499] [00499] Extending perpendicularly from the center of the left edge 372 of pressure plate 370 (with reference to Figure 4D) to pressure plate 370 is a return spring recess 335. The return spring recess 335 allows that the return spring 346 fits comfortably in the clamp apparatus 310 when the clamp apparatus 310 is fully assembled and operated.
[0500] [00500] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 4A to 4D, the pressure plate 370 is slidably coupled to the placaguia 340 by means of an association of the male and female type. The top edge 355a and the bottom edge 355b (in relation to Figures 4A to 4C) of the pressure plate 370 function like the females. The top edge 355a and the bottom edge 355b of the guide plate 370 run along a track 328 comprising a part of the structure of the guide plate 340. In the illustrated embodiment, the track 328 is a recessed groove that is cut out of the flanges 329 extended outside the top and bottom edges of the guide plate 340. Flanges 329 project towards the back of the page (with respect to Figure 4A) in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the front face 350 of the placebo 340. As shown, the rails 328 can be cut at the flanges 329 in such a way that the rails 328 extend substantially parallel to the plane of the front face 350 of the guide plate 340.
[0501] [00501] The gripper apparatus 310 in the embodiment illustrated in Figures 4A to D also comprises a gripper frame 390. Gripper frame 390 can also be coupled to the gripper apparatus 310 through one or a number of male and female associations. As shown, the grip frame 390 can be slidably coupled to the pressure plate 370. In addition, at least one spring 380 can be arranged between the grip frame 390 and the pressure plate 370 to exert additional clamping force while the clamp apparatus 310 is in the closed position and a clamped object 100 is present.
[0502] [00502] In an exemplary embodiment, the gripper frame 390 is generally a hollow, generally rectangular sleeve open at its right end 392 and left end 393 (in relation to Figure 4A). The sliding gripper base 320 can fit into the hollow interior of the glove-type gripper frame 390. Other modalities can close the left end 393 of the gripper frame 390 and secure the sliding gripper 302 to it in such a way that the left end 393 of the gripper frame 390 perform the function of the sliding gripper base 320.
[0503] [00503] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 4A to 4D, the sliding gripper base 320 is immovably coupled within the hollow interior of the gripper frame 390. This can be achieved in a number of ways. As shown, the sliding gripper base 320 can be coupled to the gripper frame by a first tip 368 and a second tip 369. Other embodiments that employ tips can use any suitable amount of tips. The first point 368 can be inserted through a hole in the rear face 364 of the grip frame 390 in a corresponding hole in the rear face of the sliding grip base 320 (directions refer to the orientation of Figure 4A). The second point 369 can be inserted through a hole in the front face 365 of the gripper frame 390 in a corresponding hole in the front face of the sliding gripper base 320.
[0504] [00504] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 4A to 4D, the second point 369 is not flush with the front face 365 of the grip frame 390. Instead, at least a portion of the second point 369 projects past the front face 365 of the grip frame 390. At least part of that portion of the second point 369 runs along a crack 329 that is cut at the edge of the pressure plate 370 in front of the return spring recess 335. As shown, the crack 329 can be cut at said edge of pressure plate 370 at an angle substantially perpendicular to said edge. The interaction of crack 329 and second tip 369 effectively restricts the movement of grip frame 390. When second tip 369 is close to the left end of crack 329, second tip 369 and all attached components can no longer travel in direction to the left of the page (in relation to Figure 4A).
[0505] [00505] Gripper frame 390 may also comprise a set of ears 394. As shown in the exemplary embodiment in Figures 4A to D, one of the ears 394 may protrude out of the top face 395 of the gripper frame 390 while others protrude from the bottom face 396 of the grip frame 390. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 4A to 4D, each ear 394 comprises a column that supports a round cylinder whose elongated section extends in a direction parallel to the plane of the front face 365 of the grabber frame 390. The ears 394 protrude from the top face 395 and the bottom face 396 of the grabber frame 390 at an angle substantially perpendicular to the top face 395 and the bottom face 396 of the grabber frame 390. In alternative modes, the format, thickness, construction, orientation, etc. of ears 394 may differ. In addition, some embodiments may comprise a compression spring die 378 protruding out of each ear 394. The compression spring die 378 are similar to the return spring die 343.
[0506] [00506] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the top and bottom edges of the front face 365 of the grip frame 390 may comprise the grip frame females 379 that extend at least partially along at least one of the edges of top and bottom of the front face 365 of the grab frame 390. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 4A to 4D, the females of the grab frame 379 protrude outside the entire length of the top and bottom edges of the front face 365 of the grip frame 390 and are extensions of the front face plane 365 of grip frame 390.
[0507] [00507] Extending from the rear face 336 of the pressure plate 370 and oriented approximately parallel to the return spring recess 335, it can be an upper spring housing 339 and a lower spring housing 338. In an exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 4A the 4D, the upper spring housing 339 and the lower spring housing 338, both comprise a raised rib 304 and a compression spring pocket 333. The raised rib 304 protrudes off the rear face 336 of the pressure plate 370 in an angle substantially perpendicular to the rear face 336 of the pressure plate 370. The raised grooves 304 extend parallel to the top edge 355a and the bottom edge 355b of the pressure plate 370. As shown, the raised grooves 304 can be traversed through the entire pressure plate length 370. The raised grooves 304 function as a column in which the compression spring pockets 333 of the upper spring housing 339 and the lower spring housing 338 are the copleted. As shown in the exemplary embodiment in Figures 4A to 4D, the compression spring pockets 333 can be elongated along the entire length of the ribs 304.
[0508] [00508] The compression spring pockets 333 overlap the grooves 304 forming "T" type shapes. The portions of the "T" -type shapes facing the lateral center line of the pressure plate 370 form the grooves 306 of a male and female arrangement in conjunction with the rear face of the pressure plate 370. Grip frame females 379 are slidably coupled in these grooves 306.
[0509] [00509] The opposite portions of the "T" -type shapes (those distal to the lateral center line of the pressure plate 370) also form the grooves 308 of another male and female arrangement in conjunction with the rear face of the pressure plate 370. In the embodiment shown in Figures 4A to 4D, the distal grooves 308 slide together around females 309 formed by a part of the flanges 329 which are extended outside the guide plate 340.
[0510] [00510] Compression spring pockets 333 can be hollow to allow compression springs 380 to be seated inside compression spring pockets 333. In the embodiment shown in Figures 4A to 4D, the right end (in relation to the Figure 4A) of the compression spring pockets 333 is closed to provide a surface on which the compression springs 380 can be compacted. In addition, the compression spring pockets 333 each represent a gap 397 (best shown in Figure 4D) that is cut out of the face of the compression spring pockets 333 closest to the lateral centerline of the pressure plate 370.
[0511] [00511] When fitted, as described above, a compression spring 380 can be seated in each of the compression spring pockets 333. One end of the compression springs 380 is close to the closed ends of the compression spring pockets 333. The other ends of the compression springs 380 are close to the right faces of the ears 394 that protrude from the top face 395 and the bottom face 396 of the gripper frame 390. The compression springs 380 fit around the spring dies of compression 378 that can extend from the ears 394 on the grip frame 390. This helps to hold the compression springs 380 firmly in place during operation and use of the clamp apparatus 310. The compression springs 380 deflect the compression frame gripper 390 and the components immovably attached to them (notably the sliding gripper 302 and the sliding gripper base 320) to the left of the page (in relation to Figure 4A) until the second of tip 369 is close to the left end of crack 329 and components may not be able to move further to the left of the page. This ensures that as handle assembly 319 is actuated, cam plate 360, pressure plate 370, grip frame 390 and the attached components move together as a unit until the slide grip 302 encounters a clamped object 100 .
[0512] [00512] In the embodiment shown in Figures 4A to 4D, the diameter of the hollow portions of the compression spring pockets 333 is slightly larger than the diameter of the cylinder portion of the ears 394. The gap 397 in the compression spring pockets creates a path for the ear column portion 394 to travel. When a force sufficient to overcome the deflection force of the compression springs 380 is applied, the compression springs 380 begin to compress.
[0513] [00513] Such force can be generated when a user rotates the handle set 319 and a clamped object 100 is present. As mentioned above, in the embodiment shown in Figures 4A to 4B, the cam plate 360, pressure plate 370, gripper frame 390 and the attached components move together substantially as a unit until the sliding gripper 302 encounters a clamped object 100 When the clamped object 100 comes into contact with the sliding gripper 302, the sliding gripper 302 begins to push the clamped object 100 against the fixed gripper 322. When the force that the clamped object 100 exerts back against the sliding gripper 302 becomes greater than the deflection force of the compression springs 380, the sliding gripper 302, the sliding gripper base 320, the gripper frame 390 and the components immovably coupled to the gripper frame 390 stop moving. Cam plate 360 and pressure plate 370 continue to move towards its closed orientation as handle assembly 319 rotates to its closed orientation. This causes the compression springs 380 to start compressing. As the compression springs 380 are compressed, the ears 394 slide even more progressively into the hollow portions of the compression spring pockets 333 and along the gaps 397 of the compression spring pockets 333 until the clamp apparatus 310 reaches its orientation completely closed.
[0514] [00514] The force exerted by the compressed compression springs 380 on the clamped object 100 through the gripper frame 390 and the sliding gripper 302 helps to create a more vigorous gripping force than could otherwise be achieved. In addition, the restoring force of the compression springs 380 is complementary to that provided by the return spring 346 when the clamp apparatus 310 is moved to the open position. The restoring force of the compression spring 380 causes the gripper frame 390 and the components fixed immovably to return back to their standard orientation along the crack 329 in the pressure plate 370. The force exerted by the compressed compression springs 380 additionally facilitates the opening of the clamp apparatus 310.
[0515] [00515] In one embodiment of the present disclosure shown in Figures 5A to 5D, the restoring force of a pair of tensioned springs 409 acts to clamp a clamped object 100 between a fixed gripper 401 and a sliding gripper 403. The sliding gripper 403 can then be locked in place by means of a ratchet tongue 476, thereby securing the clamp apparatus 410 in the clamped position around a clamped object 100.
[0516] [00516] In an exemplary embodiment, a fixed gripper 401 can be firmly attached to the front face 404 of an approximately rectangular back plate 402. The gripping surface of the fixed gripper 401 is oriented perpendicularly to the front face 404 of the back plate 402. In the embodiment shown in Figures 5A to 5D, a fixed grab support wall 452 can be attached to the front face 404 of the back plate 402. As shown, the fixed grab support wall 452 can protrude from the left edge (in relation to the Figure 5A) of the rear plate 402 in a direction perpendicular to the front face 404 of the rear plate 402. Instead of fixing the fixed handle 401 to the front face 404 of the rear plate 402, the fixed handle 401 can be fixedly coupled to the right face (in relation to Figure 5A) of the fixed grab support wall 452. This is desirable due to the fact that the fixed grab support wall 452 has the ability to provide additional support to the grab fixed r 401. The gripper support wall 452 can optionally be supported by one or more reinforcements 454 that span at least a portion of the back plate 402 to the gripper support wall 452. In some embodiments, the reinforcements 454 can be bent to maximize support.
[0517] [00517] The fixed grip 401 may consist of a material chosen for its ability to grip. The fixed gripper 401 can be produced from a high friction material, a compressible material, a material that exhibits both of these qualities or any other suitable material. The fixed gripper 401 can be produced from a material that allows a firm grip without the deformation of a clamped object 100. Suitable materials can include any suitable elastomeric or non-deformable substance, including, but not limited to, plastic, rubber, metal , foam, fabric, gel, etc. At least a portion of the fixed gripper 401 may comprise an approximately semicircular depression or contour to accommodate a round clamped object 100, such as a mast.
[0518] [00518] In some embodiments, the fixed handle 401 is formed from a relatively inelastic material, but has a cover 458 (not shown) that fits substantially over the fixed handle 401. The cover 458 can be constructed from any suitable material that includes, but is not limited to, elastic materials such as rubber, plastic, gel, foam, fabric, polyurethane, etc. The cover 458 can be replaceable and removably fixed to the fixed handle 401.
[0519] [00519] In some embodiments, in addition to understanding the mounting location for the fixed gripper 401, the support plate 402 also includes a fixing location 418 for a gear assembly and a rail path 412 for a support plate 420. The fixing location of gear set 418, rail path 412 and backing plate 420 will be elaborated in the following paragraphs.
[0520] [00520] In an exemplary embodiment, the sliding gripper 403 is firmly attached to the front face 422 of a support plate 420 such that the gripping surface of the sliding gripper 403 is facing the gripping surface of the fixed gripper 401. As shown in the Figures. 5A to 5D, the sliding gripper 403 is attached to the front face 422 of the support plate 420 near the edge of the support plate 420 most proximal to the fixed gripper 401. In some embodiments, the support plate 420 can be shaped like a quadrilateral , specifically a rectangle. Some embodiments include a sliding grab holder base 421 which can be similar in varying degrees to the fixed grab holder wall 452. The sliding grab holder base 421 can optionally have one or more reinforcements 456 that span at least a portion of the rear plate 420 for the grab support wall 421. In some embodiments, reinforcements 456 can be bent to maximize support.
[0521] [00521] The 403 sliding gripper can consist of a material chosen for its gripping ability. The sliding gripper 403 can be produced from a high friction material, a compressible material, a material that exhibits both of these qualities or any other suitable material. The sliding grip 403 can be produced from a material that allows a firm grip without the deformation of a clamped object 100. Suitable materials can include any suitable elastomeric or non-deformable substance, including, but not limited to, plastic, rubber, metal , foam, fabric, gel, etc. At least a portion of the sliding gripper 403 may comprise an approximately semicircular depression or contour to accommodate a round clamped object 100, such as a mast.
[0522] [00522] In some embodiments, the slide holder 403 is formed from a relatively inelastic material, but has a cover 458 (not shown) that fits substantially over slide holder 403. Cover 458 can be constructed from any suitable material that includes, but is not limited to, elastic materials such as rubber, plastic, gel, foam, fabric, polyurethane, etc. The cover 458 can be replaceable and removably fixed to the fixed handle 403.
[0523] [00523] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 5A to 5D, the backing plate 420 is approximately rectangular. A handle 430 can protrude off the edge of the backing plate 420 more distal to the fixed gripper 401. The handle 430 can be a part of a "U" shaped member. As shown, the bottom of the "U" shape and at least a portion of each vertical of the "U" shape protrude from the backing plate 420 that forms an empty space 432. The empty space 432 is defined by the edge of the support plate 420 and the protruding sections of the U-shaped handle 430. A user's finger (s) can easily grasp the bottom of the U-shape of the handle 430 through this space empty 432 when a user wishes to manipulate the position of the backing plate 420.
[0524] [00524] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 5A to 5D, at least one section of the vertical parts of the "U" shape of the handle 430 attach the handle 430 to the support plate 420. The vertical parts of the "U" shape of the handle 430 can project out of the top and bottom intervals (directions in relation to the orientation in Figure 5A) of the perimeter of the front face 422 of the backing plate 420 towards the front of the page at an angle substantially perpendicular to the front face 422 of the plate support plate 420. Back plate 420 and handle 430 can also be formed as a continuous part during manufacture. In addition, the top sections of the vertical parts of the "U" shape of the handle 430 may comprise the reinforcements 456 that traverse at least a portion of the support plate 420 to the sliding gripper support base 421. In alternative modes, the handle 430 can be attached to the backing plate 420 in any of a variety of ways and can take any suitable shape or size.
[0525] [00525] At least a portion of the handle 430 can be produced from a material such as, but not limited to, rubber, polymer, composite, metal, plastic, foam, etc. In addition, the handle 430 can comprise ergonomic finger grooves, knots, a ribbed texture, a honeycomb texture, etc.
[0526] [00526] The front face 404 of the back plate 402 can comprise at least one rail path 412 that extends substantially the entire length of the width of the back plate 402. In the embodiment shown in Figures 5A to 5B, the double rail paths 412 on the front face 404 of the back plate 402 extend in parallel from the edge of the back plate 402 where the fixed gripper 401 is attached to the opposite edge of the back plate 402. The double rail paths 412 extend along parallel planes to the top and bottom edges (with reference to Figure 5A) of the back plate 402. The rail paths 412 can support and guide the backing plate 420 as the clamp apparatus 410 is moved between its clamped and unchanged orientations.
[0527] [00527] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 5A to 5D, each of the rail paths 412 comprises a groove 414 which is recessed in each rail path 412. Groove 414 is recessed on the side of each rail path 412 which is turned to the other rail path 412. This makes the rail paths 412 have an "L" shape. The rear face 415 of the backing plate 420 comprises projections 440 that are dimensioned in such a way that they can be received by the groove 414 in the rail paths 412 in the back plate 402. This male and female arrangement is coupled in a light and safe way the back plate 402 and the backing plate 420 together.
[0528] [00528] The clamp apparatus 410 is deflected towards the closed position by at least one extension spring 409. In the embodiment shown in Figures 5A to 5D, the clamp apparatus 410 comprises two extension springs 409. One end of each extension spring 409 is hooked around an extension spring screw 411a. Each extension spring die 411a projects towards the front of the page (in relation to Figure 5A) of the back plate 402 at an angle perpendicular to the front face 404 of the back plate 402. The other end of each extension spring 409 is hooked to another 411b extension spring threader. Each extension spring die 411b projects towards the back of the page (with respect to Figure 5A) of the rear face 415 of the pressure plate 420 at an angle substantially perpendicular to the rear face 415 of the backing plate 420.
[0529] [00529] Extension spring dies 411a and 411b can comprise a feature such that a slit helps to ensure that extension springs 409 do not come out of extension spring dies 411a and 411b. In some embodiments, the extension spring heads 411a and 411b can be replaced by a variety of different fastening means. In some embodiments, hooks, rings, eye bolts, U-bolts or any other arrangement obvious to those skilled in the art can be used. In other embodiments, the clamp device 410 may not use extension springs 409 and instead use any other type of spring such as, but not limited to, a pneumatic spring that uses a bladder, piston-type arrangement, a spring of compression, a compression spring made of a compressible and elastic material such as rubber, an extension spring, a spring of constant force, etc.
[0530] [00530] In an exemplary embodiment, the unstressed length of the 409 extension springs is somewhat less than the distance between a set of 411a and 411b spring dies. This is desirable due to the fact that it ensures that the support plate 420 and the fixed sliding grip 403 are always deflected against the fixed grip 401 and that there is no "slope" in the clamp device 410. Pull the support plate 420 and the sliding gripper fixed 403 in the opposite direction to the fixed gripper 401 (that is, towards the open position) can then tension the extension springs 409 and additionally clamp the clamp device 410 towards the closed position by means of spring pressure . When the backing plate 420 is released, the clamp apparatus 410 will automatically return towards its closed orientation due to the restoring force of the extension springs 409.
[0531] [00531] In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figures 5A to 5D, a user can open the clamp apparatus 410 by pulling the handle 430 as well as the fixed support plate 420 and the slide handle 403 in the opposite direction to the fixed handle 401. Although the clamp apparatus 410 is held in the open position, a clamped object 100 may be placed in the space between the fixed clamp 401 and the slide clamp 403. The clamp apparatus 410 may then be allowed to automatically return to the closed position by a release of handle 430 by the user.
[0532] [00532] Other modalities, including the modality shown in Figures 5A to 5D, may comprise additional features that provide additional clamping force, making the clamp easier to operate, etc. In addition to the aforementioned male and female arrangement, one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a lockable ratchet support and pinion-type connection that can additionally be used to inform the movement of the backing plate 420.
[0533] [00533] In some embodiments, a gear assembly fixture location 418 may comprise a projection protruding from the front face 404 of the rear plate 402. The gear assembly attachment location 418 is adapted to receive a gear shaft 416. In an exemplary embodiment, the gear shaft 416 is a rod or tip made of metal, plastic or other suitable material. The gear shaft 416 may allow a pinion gear 450 to rotate freely around the geometric axis of the gear shaft 416. In some embodiments, the gear assembly attachment location 418 may take the form of a raised ring. In embodiments where the gear assembly attachment location 418 is shaped like a raised ring, the center, open section of the ring may have a slightly inner diameter, although not substantially larger than the diameter of the gear shaft 416. The gear shaft 416 can fit securely and non-rotatively to the raised inner diameter ring of gear set 418 fixing location. A pinion gear 450 can be placed on gear shaft 416.
[0534] [00534] The backing plate 420 may comprise a gap that defines a pinion groove 436 dimensioned to allow the pinion gear 450 to project through the groove 436 towards the front of the page (in relation to Figure 5A). As shown in the embodiment in Figures 5A to 5D, a support 427 is positioned adjacent to the groove 436 in such a way that the teeth of the support 427 interlock with the teeth of the pinion gear 450. Since the teeth of the support 427 and the teeth of the pinion gear 450 intertwine, the pinion gear 450 rotates about the geometric axis of the gear shaft 416 when the support plate 420 is moved towards the fixed gripper 401 or in the opposite direction to it.
[0535] [00535] The interaction of the support teeth 427 and the teeth of the pinion gear 450 can be explored by means of a ratchet assembly 470 to adjust the support plate 420 and fix the sliding gripper 403 against a clamped object 100. This is desirable due to the fact that it allows a user to generate more clamping force than the 409 extension springs alone have the capacity to generate. The ratchet assembly 470 can also enable a user to lock the clamp device 410 against a clamped object 100.
[0536] [00536] As shown in the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figures 5A to 5D, the ratchet assembly 470 comprises a ratchet lever 471. The ratchet lever 471 comprises a ratchet lever hub 472. The ratchet lever hub 472 can be shaped like a cup that fits over the section of pinion gear 450 that protrudes past the support 427 of the support plate 420. The front face (in relation to Figure 5A) of the pinion gear 450 can be close to the bottom of the cup formed by the ratchet lever hub 472. The ratchet lever hub 472 comprises a hole that can allow the ratchet lever hub 472 to slide on the gear shaft 416. In such embodiments, the gear shaft 416 becomes a fulcrum for the ratchet lever 471. The ratchet lever hub 472 can also comprise an opening 479 in the wall of the ratchet lever hub 472 which exposes numerous teeth of the pinion gear 450.
[0537] [00537] Ratchet lever 471 may additionally comprise a ratchet lever handle 473. In the exemplary embodiment in Figures 5A to 5D, the ratchet lever handle 473 acts as the input side of ratchet lever 471. The ratchet lever 473 can be grasped by a user and rotated around the geometry axis of gear shaft 416 to provide an entry.
[0538] [00538] The ratchet lever handle 473 can be produced from the same material as the rest of the ratchet lever 471, it can be produced from a different material or it can be produced from a combination thereof. Possible materials may include, but are not limited to, rubber, polymer, composite, metal, plastic, foam, etc. Additionally, the ratchet lever handle 473 can comprise ergonomic finger grooves, knots, a ribbed texture, a honeycomb texture, etc.
[0539] [00539] The ratchet lever 471 can additionally comprise at least two ratchet lever columns 474 in front of the ratchet lever handle 473 that function as the exit side of the ratchet lever 471. The ratchet lever columns 474 are extend parallel to each other. A ratchet lever column 474 extends from the bottom section of the cup to the central part of the ratchet lever 472. The other ratchet lever column 474 can be extended out of the flange section of the cup to the central part of the lever. ratchet lever 472. A ratchet lever pin 475 can span the distance between the ratchet lever columns 474. A ratchet tongue 476 and torsion spring 477 can be positioned on the ratchet lever pin 475 between the two columns. ratchet lever 474.
[0540] [00540] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 5A to 5D a user provides an entrance to the ratchet lever lock 471 by rotating the ratchet lever handle 473 substantially 90 ° counterclockwise (in relation to Figure 5A) from the unlocked position to the locked position. In the unlocked position, the ratchet lever handle 473 is oriented perpendicularly to the top edge (with respect to Figure 5A) of the rear plate 402 and the ratchet tongue 476 is retracted from the direction opposite the teeth of the pinion gear 450.
[0541] [00541] As the ratchet lever handle 473 is rotated to the locked position, the ratchet tongue 476 rotates into the teeth of the pinion gear 450 and engages them through the opening 479 in the central part of the ratchet lever 472 The torsion spring 477 applies a force against the ratchet tongue 476 that keeps it engaged with the teeth of the pinion gear 450. As a user continues to rotate the ratchet lever handle 473, the ratchet tongue 476 secures one tooth of the pinion gear 450 and forces the pinion gear 450 to rotate with the ratchet lever 471. This rotation of the pinion gear 450 is transmitted to the support 427 in order to make the support 427 and the support plate clamped 420 and the slide gripper 403 move towards the fixed gripper 401. If a clamped object 100 is present, that movement clamps the clamped object 100 against the clamped gripper 401 with more clamp force than the tensioned extension springs 4 09 alone can generate. The ratchet tongue 476 additionally locks the clamp device 410 in the ratchet position and in the closed position due to the fact that the ratchet tongue 476 obstructs any rotation of the pinion gear 450 in a direction that would result in the movement of the support 427, the support plate 420 and the slide handle fixed 403 towards the open position.
[0542] [00542] In some embodiments, including the embodiment shown in Figures 5A to 5D, the clamp apparatus 410 may comprise a cover 490. In the embodiment shown in Figures 5A to 5D, the cover 490 has a front plate 491. Extending perpendicularly out of the top and bottom of the rear face (directions refer to the orientation in Figure 5A) of the front plate 491 are a top plate 492 and a bottom plate 493. The rear edges of the top plate 492 and the bottom plate 493, which extend parallel to the plane of the front plate 491, can be immovably coupled to the cover 490 to the front face 404 of the rear plate 403 by means of screws or any other suitable closing method. The right edge (with respect to Figure 5A) of the bottom plate 493 has a cutout 498. A pin 497 can extend from the faceplate 491 through the cutout 498.
[0543] [00543] The front plate 491 of the cover 490 may comprise a second gear assembly attachment location 494. The second gear assembly attachment location 494 may comprise a hole that is slightly in diameter, although not substantially larger than the diameter of the gear rod 416. The gear rod can fit securely and non-rotatively into the hole of the second gear assembly attachment location 494.
[0544] [00544] In some embodiments, the faceplate 491 may comprise a ratchet lever handle crack 495 through which the ratchet lever arm 473 can be extended. The ratchet lever handle crack 495 can be arched to allow free movement of lever handle 473 from the unlocked position to the locked position.
[0545] [00545] In one embodiment, the cover 490 has a palm support 496. The palm support 496 can be formed as a U-shaped member that protrudes from the cover 490 in a manner and in a direction similar to that of the handle 430 of support plate 420. The palm support 496 is adapted for use as a carrying handle. The palm support 496 can also be used to assist in easy and one-handed opening of the 410 clip device. A user can place the palm support 496 on their palm and hold the handle 430 by placing their finger (s) in the empty space 432. By tightly closing the handle, a user can then transition the forceps device 410 to the open position.
[0546] [00546] The palm support 496 can be produced from the same material as the rest of the cover 490, it can be produced from a different material or it can be produced from a combination of them. Possible materials may include, but are not limited to, rubber, polymer, composite, metal, plastic, foam, etc. Additionally, the palm support 496 can comprise ergonomic finger grooves, knots, a ribbed texture, a honeycomb texture, etc. to assist in the act of transporting or insuring.
[0547] [00547] In some embodiments, the clamp device 410 may comprise a connection on the center 480 to help ensure that the ratchet lever lock 471 remains in a desired position. As shown in the embodiment in Figures 5A to 5D, the connection on the center 480 is fixed, at one end, to the pin 497 which extends through the cutout 498 on the cover 490. The other end of the connection on the center 480 is fixed to the pin ratchet lever 475 adjacent to ratchet tongue 476 and torsion spring 477. The connection over center 480 can tilt ratchet lever lock 471 to remain in both the unlocked and locked position. When the connection on the center 480 is in the position on the center, the clamp device 410 is held in the locked position. Before the connection on the center 480 reaches a position on the center, the clamp device 410 is held in the unlocked position.
[0548] [00548] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure shown in Figures 6A to 6G, a slide grab 503 is coupled to a base slide grab 504 and can perform a movement towards a fixed grab 501 mounted on a fixed grab base 524. As the slide gripper 503 is moved towards the fixed gripper 501, a clamped object 100 placed between the fixed gripper 501 and the slide gripper 503 can be clamped between the fixed gripper 501 and the slide gripper 503. As a clamped object 100 is clamped, at least one compression spring 550 is compacted. The restoring force of the compressed compression spring 550 provides additional clamp force as it pushes the slide grip 503 against the clamped object 100. An actuator handle clasp 584 locks the clamp apparatus 510 in the closed position, securely clamping securely the clamp apparatus 510 and its load secured (for example, a medical device) to a clamped object 100.
[0549] [00549] The fixed grip 501 and the slide grip 503 can comprise a material chosen for its gripping ability. The fixed grip 501 and the slide grip 503 can be produced from high-friction materials, compactable materials, materials that exhibit both of these qualities or any other suitable material. The fixed grip 501 and the slide grip 503 are produced from materials that allow a firm grip without the deformation of a clamped object 100. Suitable materials can include any suitable elastomeric or non-deformable substance that includes, but is not limited to, plastic , rubber, metal, foam, fabric, gel, etc. At least a portion of the fixed grip 501 and the slide grip 503 may comprise compressions or approximately semicircular contours to accommodate a round clamped object 100, such as a mast.
[0550] [00550] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 6A to 6G, the fixed grip 501 is mounted on a fixed grip base 524. The fixed grip base 524 comprises a fixed grip attachment location 506. The fixed grip attachment location 506 is facing the slide grip 503. As best shown in Figure 6F, the slide grip attachment location 506 can have a compression dimension to fit the outline of the slide grip 501. In some embodiments, the location gripper attachment 506 can, by friction, retain the slide gripper 501 by means of a friction fit. In alternative embodiments, the fixed grip 501 can be attached to the fixed attachment location 506 by any of a variety of means, including, but not limited to, screws, dowels, ultrasonic welds, magnets, adhesive, hook and tape. Velcro or any other suitable coupling means.
[0551] [00551] The fixed grip base 524 can be a substantially rectangular block that fits into a cavity in the housing 580 of the clamp apparatus 510. One side of the fixed grip base 524 can be fixedly coupled to the right face 581 (in relation to the Figure 6A) of the housing 580. The fixed grip base 524 can be attached to the right face 581 of the housing 580 by any number of means, such as screws, bolts, ultrasonic welds, magnets, adhesive or any other suitable coupling means. The fixed grip base 524 may also comprise an impact plate spring compartment 511. The impact plate spring compartment 511 will be elaborated later.
[0552] [00552] As best shown in Figure 6F, the slide gripper base 504 can comprise both a slide gripper attachment location 507 and a guide track 508 to guide the movement of the slide gripper 503. The attachment location slide grabber 507 is located on the face of the slide grabber base 504 that faces the left of the page (in relation to Figure 6F). As shown in Figure 6F, the slide grip attachment location 507 may have a compression dimension to fit the outline of the slide grip 503. In some embodiments, including the embodiment of Figures 6A to 6G, the attachment location the gripper 507 can, by friction, retain the slide gripper 503 by means of a friction fit. In alternative embodiments, the slide grab 503 can be attached to the slide grab attachment location 507 using screws, dowels, ultrasonic welds, magnets, adhesive or any suitable coupling means.
[0553] [00553] At least one guide track 508 can be moved from the slide grab attachment location 507. In the exemplary embodiment in Figure 6A to 6G, there are two guide trails 508. Guide trails 508 are moved from the attachment location slide gripper 507 towards the front of the page (with respect to Figure 6F) and extend perpendicular to the face of the slide gripper base 504 on which the slide gripper attachment location 507 is arranged. In some embodiments, a guide recess 510 can be defined along / within at least one surface of the guide track (s) 508. At least one guide track 508 and guide recess 510 will be constructed posteriorly.
[0554] [00554] Some embodiments may also include a slide frame 551. In some embodiments, slide frame 551 is involved in four interrelated functions. First, the slide frame 551 provides a predefined rail path for the guide tracks 508 of the slide grip base 504. Second, the slide frame 551 can hold at least one compression spring 550. The spring (s) compression gears 550 can (m) ensure that the slide frame 551, the slide gripper base 504 and the attached components move together as a unit until the slide gripper 503 is close to the clamped object 100. When the clamp 510 is locked in the closed position and the compression spring (s) 550 is (are) compacted, the restoring force exerted by the compressed compression springs 550 provides additional clamping force against a clamped object 100 Third, the slide frame 551 can comprise at least one return spring pocket 555. A return spring 553 can be placed in each of the return spring pockets 555. Return springs 553 can deflect the clamp apparatus 510 toward open position and automatically return the slide frame 551 to the open position when the user operates the clamp device 510 to the open position. Fourth, the sliding frame 551 can comprise a fastener 571 which can act as an obstacle during a user action of the clamp apparatus 510.
[0555] [00555] In relation to the first function, the guide recess 510 is dimensioned to fit in a complementary guide projection 554 located on at least one face of the slide frame 551. In the modality shown in Figures 6A to 6G, the guide projections 554 extend along the length of the top face 558 and the bottom face 556 of the slide frame 551. The guide projections 554 can serve as a rail path to direct the slide grip base 504 as it moves. moves between an open and closed position. In one embodiment, the projection (projections) - guide 554 are raised grooves that extend along the length of the top face 558 and the bottom face 556 and fit into the guide recesses 510 in the slide grip base 504. Alternatively, the guide projection 554 can be located on the slide grabber base 504 or on the guide track (s) 508 of the slide grabber base 504 to move along the guide groove 510 located on the sliding frame 551. Other modalities can use other guide configurations.
[0556] [00556] In some embodiments, the guide track 508 can be hollow and the guide recess 510 can be a breach that is cut through the guide track 508 and into the hollow portion of the guide track 508. The trail- guide 508 can be opened at one end and a compression spring 550 can be placed in the hollow portion of the guide track 508 through such an opening.
[0557] [00557] With respect to the second function, at least one of the guide projections 554 on the slide frame 551 can comprise a compression spring die 552 on which one side of a compression spring 550 is seated. In one embodiment, the compression spring die 552 is an essentially cylindrical structure with an end piece 575 that has a diameter greater than the diameter of its associated compression spring 550. The movement of the slide frame 551 in relation to the gripper base skid 504 compresses the compression spring 550 between end piece 575 and the end wall of the hollow guide track 508. As the compression spring 550 is compacted, the compression spring die 552 moves to the hollow part of the (50) -guide track (s) 508. Such movement can occur when the clamp apparatus 510 is moved from the open position to the closed position and a clamped object 100 is present. The selection of a compression spring 550 of adequate elasticity allows the restoring force generated during compression to be sufficient to return the slide grip 503 and the slide grip base 504 to the open position, while at the same time not opposes the user action of the 510 clamp apparatus.
[0558] [00558] In relation to the third function, in some embodiments, the sliding frame 551 may include at least one return spring 553 (better shown in Figure 6B) which helps to deflect the clamp apparatus 510 towards the open position. In the embodiment shown in Figures 6A to 6G, there are two return springs 553. Each return spring 553 is seated in a return spring pocket 555 that has a slightly larger diameter than the return spring 553. Each spring pocket of return 555 is lowered into the left side (in relation to Figure 6B) of the slide frame 551. One end of each return spring 553 is close to the bottom of its respective return spring pocket 555. The opposite end of each spring return 533 is close to the inner side of the right face 581 (in relation to Figure 6A) of the clamp apparatus 580 housing. As the slide frame 551 is moved towards the right face 581 of the housing 580 in which a user the clamp device 510 acts in the closed position, the return springs 553 are compacted between the bottom of the return spring pockets 555 and the inside of the right face 581 of the housing 580. When a user operates the clamp device 510 in direction o in the open position, the restoring force exerted through the return springs 553 automatically returns the sliding frame 551 to its open orientation.
[0559] [00559] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 6A to 6G, there are three return spring pockets 555, however, only two return springs 553. In some embodiments, including the illustrated embodiment, a user can add additional return springs 553 to the device 510 clamp if such action is considered desirable.
[0560] [00560] The fourth fastener function of the sliding frame 551 requires a broader description of how a user can actuate the clamp apparatus 510. As shown in Figures 6A to 6G, the clamp apparatus 510 may comprise an actuator handle 502. The user's rotation of the actuator handle 502 can generate sufficient force to actuate the clamp apparatus 510 towards the closed position. The actuator handle 502 is an approximately L-shaped structure comprising a vertical arm 573 and a horizontal arm 574; both arms merge at a substantially right angle. The actuator handle 502 comprises at least one means for a pivotal fixation of the actuator handle 502 for the clamp apparatus 510. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 6A to 6G, the actuator handle 502 is coupled to a gear rod 520 with a screw 576. When the actuator handle 502 is rotated, the gear rod 520 rotates about its geometric axis.
[0561] [00561] At rest, the clamp 510 device is deflected to the open position. In the open position, the vertical arm 573 of the actuator handle 502 can point towards the bottom of the page as shown in Figure 6A. The horizontal arm 574 can project towards the left of the page in a perpendicular way to the vertical arm 573 of the actuator handle 502 as shown in Figure 6A. To actuate the clamp apparatus 510 for closed orientation, the actuator handle 502 must be turned clockwise (in relation to Figure 6A) substantially 180 ° complete.
[0562] [00562] In some embodiments, the rotation of the actuator handle 502 is converted to the linear movement that drives the slide grip 503 towards the fixed handle 501. Thus, the rotation of the actuator handle 502 closes the clamp device 510 As mentioned above, the rotation of the actuator handle 502 generates the rotation of a gear rod 520. In some embodiments, at least one cam gear 590 is driven through the rotation of the gear rod 520. Optionally, two or more gears camshafts 590 can be used to better accommodate the specific space and size needs of a specific modality of the 510 clamp apparatus.
[0563] [00563] In the embodiment shown in Figures 6A to 6G, cam gear 590 is eccentrically attached to gear rod 520 at a distance "r" from the center of cam gear 590. In some embodiments, an extension link 505 can be projected towards the center of the cam gear 590 from the gear rod 520. The extension connection 505 can be coupled to the interior of the cam gear center 590 to help sustain the rotation of the cam gear 590 as that the actuator handle 502 is rotated. Over approximately 180 ° rotation of the actuator handle 502, the cam gear 590 can travel a linear distance of approximately 2 "r".
[0564] [00564] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 6A to 6G, the linear movement of the cam gear 590 is multiplied and given to the slide gripper 503 through a cam link gear 597. The teeth of the cam link gear 597 and the teeth of the cam gear 590 are interleaved, thus operationally coupling cam gear 590 to the sliding frame 551. In some embodiments, the connecting cam gear 597 is eccentrically coupled to the sliding frame 551 at a distance "r" from the center of the connecting cam gear 597. In the embodiment shown in Figures 6A to 6G, the connecting cam gear 597 is substantially a mirror image of the cam gear 590. Additionally, the movement of the connecting cam gear 597 mirrors the movement of the cam gear 590. Consequently, the 180 ° rotation of the actuator handle 502 creates a linear displacement of 4 "r" in the sliding frame 551. This causes the base of the ag slider 504 and slide grab 503 move towards the fixed grab 501. If a clamped object 100 is present, the slide frame 551 and the slide grab base 504 move as a unit only until the grab grab slide 503 contact the clamped object 100. When the slide grab 503 comes in contact with the clamped object 100, the compression springs 550 start to compact as described above.
[0565] [00565] In embodiments where a lower degree of linear displacement may be desirable, both cam gear 590 and connecting cam gear 597 may not be eccentrically coupled to the collet apparatus. This would assist the linear displacement of the slide frame 551. Alternatively, the distance "r" could be increased or decreased to achieve a greater or lesser degree of displacement of the slide frame 551.
[0566] [00566] The fourth stop function of the sliding frame 551 can prevent the actuator handle 502 from starting to be rotated beyond the fully open orientation. As best shown in Figure 6B, the slide frame 551 has a fastener 571. The fastener 571 can be a knot projecting into a claw-shaped cutout 576 in the slide frame 551. Other suitable cutouts can alternatively be used. Clamp 571 holds a claw-shaped jaw 572 that extends from a thin disc 594 that is coupled to the center of cam gear 590. Thin disc 594 can be coupled to the center of link cam gear 597. The thin disc 594 may have a semicircle rail 598 through which the gear rod 520 can extend. As the actuator handle 502 is rotated, the thin disk 594 and the fixed pin 572 follow the eccentric movement of the cam gear 590. The position of the gear rod 520 along the semicircle rail 598 also changes. In the closed position, the gear rod 520 can be located at the right end of the rail in a semicircle 598 (in relation to Figure 6B). In addition, in the closed position, the pins 572 may not be inserted into the fastener cutout 571. After 90 ° of rotation of the actuator handle 502 towards the open position, the gear rod 520 is located at the lowest point in the arc of the semicircle track 598. Consequently, the thin disc 594 and the fixed spike 572 are the highest points in its displacement and the spikes 572 inserted the claw-shaped cutout 576 over the knot holder 571. In the fully open position, the stem gear unit 520 can be located at the left end of the rail in a semicircle 598. The spikes 572 can protrude completely into the claw-shaped cutout 576 and hook around the knot holder 571. In that position, the actuator handle 502 may not be additionally rotated to the open direction due to the fact that the clamp 571 blocks any further movement of the 572 pins. In addition, further rotation of the 502 actuator handle is prohibited due to the fact that a gear rod 520 is at the end of the semicircle rail 598 and the thin disc 594 blocks any further displacement.
[0567] [00567] In some embodiments, an actuator handle closure 584 works to operatively prevent actuator handle 502 from being rotated out of the locked position. The closure of the 584 actuator handle (best shown in Figure 6G) can be an approximately rectangular flat structure. There may be a hole approximately through the center of the 584 actuator handle closure. The hole may be large enough to comfortably accommodate a user's finger. With reference to Figure 6G, the top edge of the closure of the actuator handle 584 may comprise a lock compression spring threader 583 on which an actuator handle spring 592 can be seated. The bottom edge can comprise 585 projections.
[0568] [00568] In some embodiments, the vertical arm 573 of the actuator handle 502 comprises a lock housing 586. As best shown in Figure 6G, the lock housing 586 extends perpendicularly from the vertical arm 573 and over the face of top 513 of the clamp apparatus 510. The lock housing 586 may comprise a channel 587 sized to fit the lock of the actuator handle 584, the lock compression spring screw 583, the actuator handle spring 592 and the projections 585. The channel 587 can be cut along the central plane of the lock housing 586 which extends perpendicular to the vertical arm 573. The channel 587 guides the closing movement of the actuator handle 584. There may be a hole approximately through the center of the 586 actuator lock housing that is large enough to accommodate a user’s finger.
[0569] [00569] The closure of the actuator handle 584 protrudes out of the actuator closure housing 586 and against the top face 513 of the housing 580. A tip 588 can extend through channel 587 above the actuator handle spring 592 The tip 588 is arranged so that the actuator handle spring 592 can deflect the closure of the actuator handle 584 against the top face of the housing 580.
[0570] [00570] In the path of the closure of the actuator handle 584, a ramp 516 is arranged. As the actuator handle 502 is turned towards the closed position, the closure of the actuator handle 584 is close to the ramp 516. According to the handle of actuator 502 continues to rotate towards the closed position, the closure of the actuator handle 584 is close to the ramp 516. This causes the closure of the actuator handle 584 to be pushed upward from the channel 587 and into the housing of the actuator lock 586 which, in turn, compresses the actuator handle spring 592 between the tip 588 and the lock compression spring screw 583. When the actuator handle 502 is in the fully closed position, the closure of the handle actuator 584 clears the ramp 516 and the spring restoring force causes the closure of the actuator handle 584 to bounce off the top face 513 of housing 580. This locks the clamp apparatus 510 in the closed position as any movement in direction to the open position is prevented by the f actuator strap 584 so that it snaps to the edge of the ramp 516. To release the clamp device 510 from the locked position, a user can insert a finger into the hole in the actuator strap 584 lock and the 586 lock housing and pull closing the actuator strap 584 back into the actuator lock housing 586. This allows closing the actuator strap 584 to unclog the edge of the ramp 516 thereby allowing rotation of the actuator strap 502 towards the position open.
[0571] [00571] In some embodiments, the horizontal arm 574 of the actuator handle 502 may also comprise a lock / lock feature 531. This lock / lock feature 531 may be present in conjunction with the actuator lock 584 or as a replacement for the same. In embodiments in which the horizontal arm 574 comprises a lock / lock feature 531, the front face 532 of the housing 580 of the clip apparatus 510 may comprise a crack 534 through which a spring-loaded impact plate 533 protrudes. Impact plate 533 (best shown in Figure 6E) can be approximately flat. The bottom of the impact plate 533 (with reference to Figure 6E) can comprise at least one impact plate spring die 535 on which an impact plate spring 536 is seated. In the modality shown in Figures 6A to 6G, there are two spring plates with impact plate 535 and two spring plates with impact plate 536 attached. The impact plate springs 536 fit inside the impact plate spring compartment 511 lowered into the fixed grip base 524. In some embodiments, the top edge of the impact plate 533 (in relation to Figure 6E ) may comprise a chute portion 537, a chute portion 538 and a column portion 539. Impact plate 533 projects from gap 534. Impact plate 533 can be pushed into gap 534 at the front face 532 of housing 580 so that it does not protrude beyond the surface of front face 532 of housing 580. In that position, the impact plate springs 536 are compacted between a portion of the impact plate spring compartment 511 and the spring plates of the impact plate 535. This spring loads the impact plate 533 to automatically return to its protruding orientation.
[0572] [00572] As the actuator handle 502 is rotated to the closed position, the horizontal arm 574 on the actuator handle 502 comes into contact with the ramp portion 537 of the impact plate 533. As the horizontal arm 574 is additionally rotated, it moves to a higher section of the ramp portion 537. Due to the fact that the impact plate springs 536 are not strong enough to cause the horizontal arm 574 to deflect, the impact plate springs 536 are compacted and the impact plate 533 is pushed into the gap 534 into its non-protruding position. When the horizontal arm 574 passes the top of the ramp portion 537, the restoring force of the impact plate springs 536 causes the impact plate 533 to be pushed back into its protruding position with the next chute portion 538 to the horizontal arm 574. This locks the clamp device 510 in the closed position. In this locked position, the horizontal arm 574 cannot be further rotated towards the closed position due to the fact that the column portion 539 of the impact plate 533 blocks such movement. Additionally, the horizontal arm may not progress towards the open position due to the fact that it will be close to the edge of the ramp portion 537 and will be restricted in motion by it. To unlock the clamp device 510, a user must lower the column portion of the impact plate 533 into the gap 534 and compact the impact plate springs 536. This allows the horizontal arm 574 to unblock the edge of the ramp 537 as a user rotates the 502 actuator handle towards the open position.
[0573] [00573] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a quick release clamp 519 can be used to secure a medical device or other object to the clamp apparatus 510. The quick release clamp 519 may comprise a twist clamp 522 and a clamp hook. clasp 523. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, at least one torsion spring 521 can be used to clip a load to the clamp apparatus 510 between the clamp clamp 522 and the clasp hook 523. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 6A at 6G, two locking hooks 523 are firmly attached to the top face 513 of the housing 580. The locking hooks 523 are displaced from each other. The hook portions of the lock hooks 523 project towards the back of the page (in relation to Figure 6A). The twist clamp 522 is pivotally attached to the lock hook 523 by means of a fixing means 525 which can, for example, be a pin, tip, cotter pin, pin, hexagon pin, screw or other known means for a versed element in the technique. As shown in Figures 6A to 6G, the twist clamp 522 can be a relatively flat member spanning the distance between the two locking hooks 523. In some embodiments, at least one surface of the twist clamp 522 can comprise a fastener 526. The fastener 526 can act as an obstacle to a receiving structure on top of a medical device or other object. The torsion spring (s) 521 can supplement the fastener 526 by deflecting the receiving structure so that it is in contact with the locking hooks 523. The locking hooks 523 can also be coupled to a reception structure on a medical device or other object. Rotating the torsion clamp 522 downward from the spring loads each torsion spring 521 so that the torsion clamp 522 is automatically pivoted to the closed position when released. This is desirable due to the fact that it causes the quick release clamp 519 to automatically adjust to a load, such as the medical device or other object, regardless of the size of the receiving structure.
[0574] [00574] As best shown in Figure 6D, some modalities may comprise a 540 rest for a medical device or other object that can be attached to the forceps device through the quick release clamp 519. As shown, the 540 rest can protrude at an angle from the top face 513 of the housing 580. Extending perpendicularly from the bottom edge of the rear face 512 of the housing 580 can be a rest support 541 for the rest 540. The rest support 541 couples the rear face 512 from housing 580 to the rest 540. Additionally, the rest 540 may have several features that help to hold the medical device or other object in place on the rest 540.
[0575] [00575] Housing 580 or rest 540 may also have any of a variety of mechanisms 515 (not shown) for securing a load to the 510 clip device. Such mechanisms 515 may include, but are not limited to, brackets, magnets, bands, cups suction tubes, hooks, screws or bolts, a friction fit, etc. That charge can be any number of things, especially a medical device (such as an infusion pump or peristaltic infusion pump), IV bag, etc.
[0576] [00576] Figures 7A to 7D show another embodiment of a clamp apparatus 610. The clamp apparatus 610 comprises a first movable jaw 630 and a second movable jaw 632 coupled to move simultaneously. A clamped object 100 can be clamped between the first movable jaw 630 and the second movable jaw 632 and clamped through the clamp apparatus 610.
[0577] [00577] In some embodiments, the clamp apparatus 610 includes a housing 612. As shown in Figures 7A to 7D, the housing 612 can be shaped similar to a rectangular tray. The bottom face 614 of the housing 612 can be substantially flat. In some embodiments, the bottom face 614 of housing 612 may have one or more gear attachment locations 616. The bottom face may also have one or more raised columns 618. The raised columns may comprise a recessed hole substantially in the center of the columns 618. The hole can be additionally pressed to receive the thread of a screw. As shown in Figure 7A, gear attachment locations 616 and raised columns 618 can all be aligned with each other. In addition, as shown, gear attachment locations 616 and raised columns 618 may extend along the centerline of the bottom face 614 so that they extend parallel to the front wall 622 and the rear wall 624 of housing 612 The gear attachment locations 616 and the raised columns 618 will be further elaborated at a later time.
[0578] [00578] At least a portion of the housing 612 may also have any of a variety of mechanisms 619 (not shown) for securing a load to the clamp apparatus 610. Such mechanisms 619 may include, but are not limited to, brackets, magnets, bands , suction cups, hooks, screws or bolts, a friction fit, etc. That charge can be any number of things, especially a medical device (such as an infusion pump or peristaltic infusion pump), IV bag, etc.
[0579] [00579] As mentioned above, housing 612 may comprise a front wall 622 and a rear wall 624. With reference to Figure 7D, the front wall 622 projects towards the top of the page from the edge of the bottom face 614 which is facing the front of the page. The front wall 622 projects substantially perpendicular to the plane of the bottom face 614 of the housing 612. The inner face of the front wall 622 may comprise a protruding rail section 628 which extends parallel to the top and bottom edges of the wall front 622. The rear wall 624 projects towards the top of the page from the edge of the bottom face 614 of the housing 612 which faces the back of the page. The rear wall 624 projects perpendicularly to the bottom face 614 of the housing 612. The inner face of the rear wall 624 may comprise a protruding rail section 629 which extends parallel to the top and bottom edges of the rear wall 624.
[0580] [00580] In the embodiment shown in Figures 7A to 7D, the right side 620 and the left side 626 of the housing 612 are detachable end caps. The right side 620 and the left side 626 of the housing 612 can be coupled to the bottom face 614 of the housing 612 by means of screws, bolts, welds or any other suitable means. In other embodiments, the right side 620 and the left side 626 can be formed as a continuous part of the housing 612 during manufacture. The right side 620 of the housing 612 may have a projecting flange 621 that protrudes over a portion of the bottom face 614 of the housing 612. Similarly, the left side 626 of the housing 612 may have a projecting flange 627 projecting over a bottom face portion 614 of housing 612.
[0581] [00581] In some embodiments, a first gripper 601 and a second gripper 602 are firmly attached to a first bracket 604 and a second bracket 606, respectively. The first bracket 604 and the second bracket 606, respectively, comprise part of the first movable jaw 630 and the second movable jaw 632. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 7A to 7D, each of the first bracket 604 and the second bracket 606 comprises friction locking features 607. friction locking features 607 allow the respective grips 601 and 602 to be attached to the first bracket 604 and the second bracket 606. In other embodiments, the grips 601 and 602 can be attached to the first bracket 604 and the second bracket 606 through any number of coupling means including, but not limited to, screws, bolts, ultrasonic welds, magnets, adhesive, etc.
[0582] [00582] The first gripper 601 and the second gripper 602 consist of a material chosen due to its gripping ability. The first gripper 601 and the second gripper 602 can be produced from a high friction material, a compressible material, a material that exhibits both of these qualities or any other suitable material. The first gripper 601 and the second gripper 602 are produced from a material that allows a firm grip without the deformation of a clamped object 100. Suitable materials can include any suitable elastomeric or non-deformable substance, including, but not limited to, plastic , rubber, metal, foam, fabric, gel, polyurethane, etc. At least a portion of the first gripper 601 and the second gripper 602 may comprise compressions or approximately semicircular contours to accommodate a round clamped object 100, such as a mast. The first gripper 601 and the second gripper 602 can be replaceable.
[0583] [00583] In some embodiments, the first gripper 601 and the second gripper 602 may comprise gripper teeth 613 projecting from the top and bottom edges of the first gripper 601 and the second gripper 602. Gripper teeth 613 can be arranged around the first gripper 601 and the second gripper 602 so that they can be interleaved when the gripper apparatus 610 is in the closed position. Gripper teeth 613 allow the first gripper 601 and the second gripper 602 to better encompass and retain a clamped object 100 when the gripper apparatus 610 is in the closed position. The first bracket 604 and the second bracket 606 can comprise bracket teeth 615 that support the gripper teeth 613 in the first gripper 601 and the second gripper 602. The bracket teeth 615 can be arranged around the first bracket 604 and the second bracket 606 so that they are interspersed in a similar manner to the gripper teeth 613.
[0584] [00584] The first bracket 604 may have a flange 634 that extends perpendicularly from the face of the first bracket 604 in front of the face to which the first gripper 601 is attached. The flange 634 is shaped and arranged so that it can slide under the projecting flange 621 on the right side 620 of the housing 612. A polygonal block 636 can be fixedly attached to the bottom face of the first bracket 604 (in relation to Figure 7D) . In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 7A to 7D, polygonal block 636 is specifically a long rectangular block. The short right and left ends of the long rectangular block extend parallel to the right edge of flange 634 of the first bracket 604. The long sides of the rectangular block in the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 7A to 7D extend to approximately seventy-five percent the length of the front wall 622 of the housing 612. This can be differentiated in alternating modalities. The first bracket 604, the first gripper 601, the flange 634 and the polygonal block 636 can comprise the first movable jaw 630.
[0585] [00585] One side of the polygonal block 636 may be close to the inner face of the front wall 622. The side of the polygonal block 636 which is close to the inner face of the front wall 622 may include a recessed groove 638 that accepts the protruding rail section 628 on the inner face of the front wall 622. The protruding rail section 628 operates operatively as a guide to inform the movement of the first movable jaw 630.
[0586] [00586] The side of the polygonal block 636 opposite the recessed groove 638 may include a projecting jaw rail section 640. The projecting jaw rail section 640 extends substantially parallel to the recessed groove 638. The bottom of the polygonal block 636 it can comprise an extension spring 642 through which it is lowered into the bottom face of the polygonal block 636. The extension spring track 642 also extends parallel to both the recessed groove 638 and the projecting jaw rail section 640. The bottom of the polygonal block 636 may be close to the bottom face 614 of housing 612.
[0587] [00587] A first extension spring 644 can be placed on the extension spring chute 642. As shown in the embodiment in Figures 7A to 7D, the right end (in relation to Figure 7D) of the extension spring 644 can be coupled to the inside of the extension spring chute 642 through a first extension spring chuck 646. The left end of the extension spring 644 can be coupled to the bottom face 614 of housing 612 through a second extension spring chuck 648. The first extension spring 644 deflects the first movable jaw 630 towards the closed position. Moving the first movable jaw 630 from the closed position to the open position extends the first 644 extension spring. Restoring force from the first 644 extension spring will automatically cause the first movable jaw 630 to return to the closed position. When a clamped object 100 is present, the restoring force of the first extension spring 644 will cause the first movable jaw 630 to press the first gripper 601 inside the clamped object 100, automatically adjusting the size or circumference of the clamped object. 100.
[0588] [00588] In some embodiments, including the embodiment shown in Figures 7A to 7D, a first support 650 may be additionally coupled to the bottom of the first movable jaw 630. As shown, the first support 650 is coupled to the first movable jaw 630 through two screws 652. A screw 652 couples the first support 650 to the first movable jaw 630 through a screw hole in the flange 634. As shown, the first movable jaw 630 can additionally comprise a coupling protrusion 654 projecting along the plane of the bottom of the first bracket 604. The coupling boss 654 projects towards the left of the page in relation to Figure 7D. The second screw 652 couples the first support 650 to the first movable jaw 630 through a screw hole in the coupling boss 654.
[0589] [00589] As shown in Figures 7A to 7D, the first support 650 has a support groove 656 lowered into the face of the first support 650 which is facing the back of the page in relation to Figure 7D. The face opposite the support groove 656 comprises several support teeth 658.
[0590] [00590] The second movable jaw 632 can, in general, be similar to the first movable jaw 630. In the embodiment shown in Figures 7A to 7D, the second movable jaw 632 is similar to the first movable jaw 630 although it comprises an additional part or different components. The second bracket 606 may comprise a second flange 660 which extends perpendicularly from the face of the second bracket 606 in front of the face to which the second gripper 603 is attached. As shown in Figures 7A to 7D, the second flange 660 can be detachable. In the modalities in which the second flange 660 can be detachable, the second flange 660 can be attached to the second bracket 606 by means of screws, bolts, magnets, adhesive, etc.
[0591] [00591] The second flange 660 can comprise a handle mechanism cover 662. The handle mechanism cover 662 can be raised from the second flange 660 towards the top of the page. At least one section of the handle mechanism cover 662 may comprise an arcuate segment 664 that faces a pivot loop 666. The arcuate segment 664 allows the pivot loop 666 to rotate. The handle mechanism cover 662 helps prevent foreign material and debris from entering the forceps apparatus 610. The handle mechanism cover 662 does not approach the second bracket 606. The handle mechanism cover 662 is displaced from the second bracket 606 towards the left of the page in relation to Figure 7D. The void created between the second bracket 606 and the handle mechanism cover 662 allows several connections to couple the pivot loop 666 to the internal mechanisms of the clamp apparatus 610.
[0592] [00592] The second bracket 606 may additionally comprise fins 668 that project from the front and rear edges of the second bracket 606 towards the cover of the handle mechanism 662. In the embodiment shown in Figures 7A to 7D, the fins 668 are attached to the handle mechanism cover 662. A handle spring screw 670 extends through each handle 668. The handle spring screws 670 project into the void between the second bracket 606 and the mechanism cover handle 662. One end of a handle extension spring 672 can be placed around each handle spring screw 670.
[0593] [00593] As shown in the embodiment shown in Figures 7A to 7D, a crack 674 is lowered into the interior of each fin 668 in a plane parallel to the front wall 622 and the rear wall 624 of the housing 612. The crack 672 can transform, In fact, the top portion of each fin 668 in a coupling bracket into which nozzles 676 protrude from the pivot handle 666 can be inserted. A tip 678 can extend through each fin 668 into the slots 674 and through the nozzles 676 of the pivot loop 666. The tips 678 pivotably attach the pivot loop 666 to the fins 668 of the second bracket 606. The tips 678 act as the geometric pivot axis for the 666 pivot handle.
[0594] [00594] The nozzles 676 of the pivot loop 666 may also comprise a hole through which a second set of loop spring dies 671 can extend. The second set of handle spring dies 671 can project into the void between the second bracket 606 and the handle mechanism cover 662. The end of each handle extension spring 672 not connected to the first set of dies handle spring 670 is connected to the second set of handle spring dies 671. The handle extension spring 672 therefore acts as a central link and helps to keep the pivot handle 666 in the closed position if the pivot handle 666 is in the closed position and helps keep the 666 pivot handle in the open position if the 666 pivot handle is in the open position.
[0595] [00595] In the exemplary modalities shown in Figures 7A to 7D, the pivot loop 666 extends towards the right of the page. In some embodiments, including those shown in Figures 7A to 7D, the pivot loop 666 comprises an open section 680 through which a user can place their fingers. The open section 680 of the pivot handle can be included to allow a user to grip the 666 pivot handle more easily. The pivot handle can also comprise a bent or arched section 681. Again, the bent or arched section of the 666 pivot handle can make it easier for a user to hold the 666 pivot handle.
[0596] [00596] A portion of the folded or arched section 681 of the pivot loop 666 can be produced from the same material as the rest of the pivot loop 666 can be produced from a different material or can be produced from a combination of the same. Possible materials may include, but are not limited to, rubber, polymer, composite, metal, plastic, foam, etc. In addition, the folded or arched section 681 may comprise ergonomic finger grooves, knots, a ribbed texture, a honeycomb texture, etc. to render greater user ease of use.
[0597] [00597] The second movable jaw 632 can additionally comprise a second polygonal block 682. The second polygonal block 682 can be fixedly coupled to the bottom face of the second bracket 606 (in relation to Figure 7D). In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 7A to 7D, the second polygonal block 682 is specifically a long rectangular block. The short right and left ends of the long rectangular block extend perpendicular to the planes of the front wall 622 and the rear wall 624 of the housing 612. The long sides of the rectangular block in the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 7A to 7D extend to approximately seventy and five percent of the length of the rear wall 624 of housing 612. This can be differentiated in alternating modalities.
[0598] [00598] One side of the second polygonal block 682 may be close to the inner face of the rear wall 624. The side of the second polygonal block 682 which is close to the inner face of the rear wall 624 may include a recessed groove 684 that accepts the rail section protruding 629 on the inner face of the rear wall 624. The protruding rail section 629 operates operatively as a guide to inform the movement of the first movable jaw 632.
[0599] [00599] The side of the second polygonal block 682 in front of the recessed groove 684 may include a second section of the protruding jaw rail 686. The second section of the protruding jaw rail 686 extends substantially parallel to the recessed groove 684. The bottom of the second polygonal block 682 can comprise a second extension spring 688 through which it is lowered into the bottom face of the second polygonal block 682. The extension spring track 688 also extends parallel to both the recessed groove 684 and to the second protruding jaw rail section 686. The bottom of the second polygonal block 682 may be close to the bottom face 614 of housing 612.
[0600] [00600] A second extension spring 689 can be placed on the extension spring rail 688. As shown in the embodiment in Figures 7A to 7D, the left end (in relation to Figure 7D) of the second extension spring 689 can be coupled to the interior of the extension spring rail 688 through a third extension spring socket 683. The right end of the extension spring 689 can be coupled to the bottom face 614 of housing 612 through a fourth extension spring socket 685. A second extension spring 689 deflects the second movable jaw 632 towards the closed position. Moving the second movable jaw 632 from the closed position to the open position extends the second extension spring 689. Restoring force from the second extension spring 689 will automatically cause the second mobile jaw 632 to return to the closed position. When a clamped object 100 is present, the restoring force of the second extension spring 689 will cause the second movable jaw 632 to press the second gripper 603 inside the clamped object 100, automatically adjusting the size or circumference of the clamped object. 100.
[0601] [00601] In some embodiments, including the embodiment shown in Figures 7A to 7D, a second support 690 can be additionally coupled to the bottom of the second mobile jaw 632. As shown, the second support 690 is coupled to the second mobile jaw 632 through two screws 691. A screw 691 couples the second support 690 to the second movable jaw 632 through a screw hole in a protrusion 692 protruding under the second flange 660. As shown, the second movable jaw 630 can additionally comprise an additional protrusion 693 protruding along the bottom plane of the second bracket 606. The additional projection 693 protrudes towards the right of the page in relation to Figure 7D. The second screw 691 couples the second support 690 to the second movable jaw 632 through a screw hole in the additional projection 693.
[0602] [00602] As shown in Figures 7A to 7D, the second support 690 has a second support groove 694 lowered into the face of the second support 690 which faces the front of the page in relation to Figure 7D. The face opposite the second support groove 694 comprises several teeth of the second support 695.
[0603] [00603] When the clamp apparatus 610 is assembled, the second support groove 694 fits around and is guided through the protruding jaw rail section 640 coupled to the first movable jaw 630. Similarly, the support groove 656 it snaps around and is guided by the second projecting jaw rail section 686. The teeth of the first support 658 and the teeth of the second support 695 are facing each other. The first support 650 and the second support 690 extend substantially parallel to each other. The teeth of the first support 568 and the teeth of the second support 695 merge with the teeth on opposite sides of at least one pinion gear 696. The at least one pinion gear 696 can be placed over a 697 extending gear rod to the interior of at least one 616 gear mounting location described earlier in the specification. In the modality depicted in Figures 7A to 7D, two 696 pinion gears are present. Each pinion gear 696 is placed on its own gear rod 697 which, in turn, extends into its own gear attachment location 616 located on the bottom face 614 of housing 612. To ensure that the gears pinion gears 696 do not escape from their associated gear rods 697, the pinion gears 696 can be sandwiched against the rear face 614 of housing 612 through a bar type plate 698. The bar type plate 698 is coupled to the columns raised 618 which project from the rear face 614 of the housing 612 by means of screws 699.
[0604] [00604] Since both the first support 650 and the second support 690 blend with the same pinion gear (s) 696 on the opposite sides of said pinion gear (s) 696, any movement of both the first movable jaw 630 and the second movable jaw 632 requires the movement of the other movable jaw in the opposite direction. If one movable jaw is pulled into the open position, the other movable jaw must therefore also move to the open position. If one movable jaw retracts towards the closed position, the other movable jaw must therefore retract towards the closed position.
[0605] [00605] The clamp apparatus 610 additionally comprises a clamping / locking mechanism 631. The clamping / locking mechanism 631 may comprise several components. In the embodiment shown in Figures 7A to 7D, the clamping / locking mechanism 631 comprises a connection 633, a cam 635 and a lock 637. A lock 637 can comprise a column 639 and a flat plate 641. The clamping / locking mechanism 631 it can be arranged in the empty space between the handle mechanism cover 662 and the grab bracket 605. The connection 633 is pivotally coupled over one end to the pivot handle 666. The connection 633 can be pivotally coupled to the handle pivot 666 by any means known to a person skilled in the art. The other end of the connection 633 is pivotally coupled to one end of the cam 635. The other end of the cam 635 can comprise a slot that accepts the column 639 of the lock 637. The cam 635 can be pivotally coupled to the column 639 of the lock 637 by any means known to a person skilled in the art. In the exemplary embodiment, the column 639 of the lock 637 projects perpendicularly from the flat plate 641 of the lock 637.
[0606] [00606] The flat plate 641 of the lock 637 is arranged under the support 650 of the first movable gripper 630 when the clamp apparatus 610 is completely assembled. Column 639 of lock 637 projects upward through a channel 643 which is cut out of the support 650. Channel 643 may not extend the entire length of the support 650.
[0607] [00607] In the embodiment shown in Figures 7A to 7D, as the pivot loop 666 is pivoted from the open position to the closed position, connection 633 also moves. The movement of the connection 633 causes the cam 635 to rotate. Rotation of cam 635 causes lock 637 to experience linear displacement along channel 643 of support 650. Due to the fact that channel 643 does not extend the entire length of support 650, column 639 of lock 637 is nearby to the end of the channel 643 and begins to generate the linear displacement of the support 650. The linear displacement of the support 650 causes both the first movable jaw 630 and the second movable jaw 632 to move, block and stiffen a clamped object 100 more strongly. In the embodiment shown in Figures 7A to 7D, connection 633 is also a central connection. When the pivot handle 666 moves completely to the closed position, connection 633 assumes a central position. When the connection 633 assumes this central position, the clamp apparatus 610 is, in fact, locked.
[0608] [00608] Figures 8A to 8D show another exemplary embodiment of a clamp apparatus 710. In the clamp apparatus 710 shown in Figures 8A to 8D, a user rotates a switch handle 750 to provide the force necessary to drive a gripper assembly movable 704 towards a fixed gripper assembly 703 via at least one connection 770 which can be a central connection.
[0609] [00609] In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in Figures 8A to 8D, the fixed gripper assembly 703 comprises a fixed gripper support 711, a fixed gripper 713 and a fixed gripper base 717. The fixed gripper support 711 extends from the top face of the fixed gripper base 717. More specifically, the fixed gripper support 711 extends from the right edge (in relation to Figure 8D) of the fixed gripper base 717 at an angle approximately perpendicular to the top face of the fixed handle base 717 and is fixedly coupled to the fixed handle base 717.
[0610] [00610] A fixed gripper 713 is coupled to the face of the fixed gripper support 711 which faces the mobile gripper assembly 704. The fixed gripper 713 can be coupled to the fixed gripper support 711 by any of a variety of means coupling, including, but not limited to, screws, bolts, magnets, adhesive, ultrasonic welds, pressure fitting, friction fitting. In some embodiments, the fixed grip 713 can be overmolded to the fixed grip support 711.
[0611] [00611] The fixed grip base 717 can be an approximately rectangular block as shown in Figures 8A to 8D. The fixed gripper base 717 may comprise a cavity 719 which is sized to engage and surround the gripper frame 705 when the gripper apparatus 710 is in the closed orientation. The fixed gripper base 717 may also comprise at least one buttress 715 that helps to support the fixed gripper support 711. The fixed gripper base 717 may comprise one or more threaded holes 791. In the embodiment shown in Figures 8A to 8D, four screws 714 extend through the housing 712 of the clamp apparatus 710 and into the corresponding threaded holes 791 at the bottom of the fixed handle base 717. The four screws 714 connect the fixed handle base 717 to the housing 712. In alternative modalities, different methods of coupling can be used including, pins, welds, magnets, adhesive and any other method of coupling known by an element skilled in the art. The fixed grip base 717 may alternatively be a continuous part of the housing 712.
[0612] [00612] In some embodiments, including the embodiment shown in Figures 8A to 8D, the movable grab assembly 704 comprises a movable grab holder 706, a movable grab 701 and a grab frame 705. As shown in Figures 8A to 8D, the mobile grip support 706 extends from the top face of a grip frame 705. More specifically, the mobile grip support 706 extends from the right edge (with respect to Figure 8D) of the grip frame 705 in an angle approximately perpendicular to the top face of the grab frame 705 and is fixedly coupled to the grab frame 705. This can be differentiated in alternating modalities.
[0613] [00613] A mobile gripper 701 is coupled to the face of the mobile gripper support 706 which faces the fixed gripper assembly 703. The mobile gripper 701 can be coupled to the mobile gripper support 706 by any one of a variety of means coupling, including, but not limited to, screws, bolts, magnets, adhesive, ultrasonic welds, pressure fitting, friction fitting.
[0614] [00614] The mobile grip 701 and the fixed grip 713 can consist of a material chosen due to their ability to grip. The movable gripper 701 and the fixed gripper 713 can be produced from a high friction material, a compressible material, a material that exhibits both of these qualities or any other suitable material. The mobile grip 701 and the fixed grip 713 are produced from a material that allows a firm grip without the deformation of a clamped object 100. Suitable materials can include any suitable elastomeric or non-deformable substance, including, but not limited to, plastic , rubber, metal, foam, fabric, gel, etc. At least a portion of the movable gripper 701 and the fixed gripper 713 may comprise compressions or approximately semicircular contours to accommodate a round clamped object 100, such as a mast. The movable grip 701 and the fixed grip 713 can be replaceable.
[0615] [00615] In some embodiments, the movable gripper 701 and the fixed gripper 713 may comprise gripper teeth 792 (as shown in Figure 8A) that project from the top and bottom edges of the movable gripper 701 and the fixed gripper 713 The gripper teeth 792 can be arranged around the movable gripper 701 and the fixed gripper 713 so that they can be interspersed when the gripper device 710 is in the closed position. The gripper teeth 792 allow the movable gripper 701 and the fixed gripper 713 to hold an increased strip of the gripped object 100 when the gripper apparatus 710 is in the closed position. By arranging the gripper teeth 794 so that they can be intercalated, the movable gripper 701 can additionally move towards the closed position. The mobile gripper support 706 and the fixed gripper support 711 can comprise support teeth 794 that support the gripper teeth 792 on the mobile gripper 701 and the fixed gripper 713. The support teeth 794 can be arranged around the support of movable gripper 706 and fixed gripper support 711, so that they are interspersed with each other in a similar manner to gripper teeth 792.
[0616] [00616] As shown in the exemplary embodiment in Figures 8A to 8D, the grip frame 705 can be approximately rectangular. The grip frame 705 can be substantially hollow and open to the hollow part at one end. In Figures 8A to 8D, the grip frame 705 is hollow, with the exception of a dividing wall 707 (with respect to Figure 8D) that extends from the inner bottom face of the hollow part to the inner top face of the hollow part. The dividing wall 707 divides the hollow portion of the grip frame 705 into two spring compartments 709 which are approximately equally dimensioned. The grip frame 705 in Figures 8A to 8D is opened to the hollow part at its right end (in relation to Figure 8D). In the embodiment shown in Figures 8A to 8D, a spring 730 is seated in each of the spring compartments 709. The spring 730 is a compression spring 730. In a preferred embodiment, the clamp apparatus 710 can be adapted to fit at least one 4012 constant force spring instead of or in addition to the compression spring 730. The 4012 constant force springs can be used in other modalities such as, but without limitation, those detailed above. Using a 4012 constant force spring is preferred due to the fact that it can make the 710 clip device easier to operate, specifically, when it is used to pinch a large / thick object. It can also allow the clamp apparatus 710 to be produced in a more compact manner. An alternative embodiment comprising a 4012 constant force spring is shown in Figures 8E to 8F.
[0617] [00617] The grip frame 705 may also comprise frame projection rails 708 on its front and rear faces (in relation to the orientation in Figure 8D). The frame projection rails 708 fit into guide grooves 721 on a driven member 720. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 8A to 8D, the driven member 720 is approximately U-shaped. The bottom face 722 of the driven member 720 comprises the bottom gap of the "U" shape. Projecting perpendicularly from the front and rear edges (in relation to Figure 8D) of the bottom face 722 of the driven member 720 towards the top of the page are a front vertical wall 723 and a rear vertical wall 724. The front vertical wall 723 and the rear vertical wall 724 comprise the vertical intervals of the "U" shape. The guide grooves 721 extend along the surfaces of the front vertical wall 723 and the rear vertical wall 724 which face each other.
[0618] [00618] In some embodiments, the driven member 720 may comprise at least one appendix 725 that extends from both the front vertical wall 723 and the rear vertical wall 724. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figures 8A to 8D, the driven member 720 includes two appendices 725. An appendix 725 extends from the face of the front vertical wall 723 opposite the face on which the guide groove 721 of the front vertical wall 723 is arranged. The other appendix extends from the face of the rear vertical wall 724 opposite the face on which the guide groove 721 of the rear vertical wall 724 is arranged.
[0619] [00619] Appendices 725 are approximately L-shaped. A portion of each appendix 725 protrudes from its front vertical wall 723 or corresponding rear vertical wall 724 at an angle substantially perpendicular to the front vertical wall 723 and rear vertical wall 724. This portion of each appendix 725 comprises the horizontal range of the formed of "L". The vertical range of the "L" shape is formed through a second portion of Appendix 725 that projects towards the top of the page from the distal end of the first portion of Appendix 725 at an angle substantially perpendicular to the first portion of Appendix 725 As shown in Figures 8A to 8D the one or more appendages can be countersunk through at least one support piece 726. In some embodiments, including the embodiment shown in Figures 8A through 8D, the one or more appendages may not cover the entire length of the front vertical wall 723 and the rear vertical wall 724 of the driven member 720. In the mode shown, the appendages stop close to the left edge (in relation to Figure 8D) of the driven member 720.
[0620] [00620] Appendices 725 or a portion of Appendices 725 can fit and slide along a grooved rail 740 over the front wall 741 and the back wall 742 of housing 712. The bottom of the driven member 720 can move along bottom face 743 of housing 712.
[0621] [00621] When the clamp apparatus 710 is assembled, the grip frame 705 fits into the driven member 720 between the front vertical wall 723 and the rear vertical wall 724. When the clamp apparatus 710 is not clamped around an object clamped 100 the grip frame 705 fits into the driven member 720 so that the right and left faces (in relation to Figure 8D) of the grip frame 705 are flush with the right and left edges of the driven member 720. one end of each compression spring 730 is close to the inner left face (in relation to Figure 8D) of the hollow portion of the grip frame 705. The other end of each compression spring 730 is close to a compression spring disk 731 that protrudes in towards the top of the page from the right edge (in relation to Figure 8D) of the driven member 720. The compression springs 730 deflect the grip frame 705 to the unchanged position, where the grip frame 705 is level with the right and left edges (in relation to Figure 8D) of the driven member 720.
[0622] [00622] When the clamp apparatus 710 is actuated from the open position to a clamped position, the driven member 720 moves towards the fixed gripper assembly 703 and the appendices 725 of the driven member 720 slide along the grooved rails 740 over housing 712. This in turn moves the movable gripper assembly 704 towards the fixed gripper assembly 703. Until the movable gripper 701 contacts a clamped object 100, the driven member 720 and the assembly of mobile gripper 703 move as a unit. When the movable gripper 701 comes into contact with a gripped object 100, the movable gripper assembly 704 can no longer advance towards the fixed gripper assembly 703 due to the fact that the gripped object 100 is in the path. The driven member 720 continues to move towards the fixed gripper assembly 703 in order to compact the compression springs 730 between the left inner wall (in relation to Figure 8D) of the hollow portion of the gripper frame 705 and the spring disks of compression 731. The restoring force of the compression springs 730 causes the mobile gripper assembly 704 to exert a more vigorous clamping force on the clamped object 100.
[0623] [00623] When the clamp apparatus 710 is moved from a clamped position towards an open position, the restoring force of the compression springs 730 can automatically bring the clamp apparatus 710 back to the unchanged and open position.
[0624] [00624] The clamp device 710 can be moved from the open position to the closed position through a user action of a switch handle 750. One end of the switch handle 750 can be pivotally coupled to the housing 712 of the switch device clamp 710. In the embodiment shown in Figures 8A to 8D, switch handle 750 is attached to the right end cap 745 (in relation to Figure 8D) of housing 712. As shown, the right end cap 745 protrudes perpendicularly from from the bottom face 743 of the housing 712 towards the top of the page. The right end cover 745 can be fixedly attached to housing 712 using screws, bolts, welds, etc. or it can be molded as a continuous part of the housing 712.
[0625] [00625] The right end cover 745 can comprise several other features. As shown in Figures 8A to 8D, the right end cover 745 can comprise a pair of projections 746 that project towards the fixed gripper assembly 703. The projection 746 can extend parallel to the front wall 741 and the rear wall 742 of housing 712. Extension spring heads 760 can project from each of the pairs of projections 746. In the mode shown in Figures 8A to 8D, each of the extension spring heads 760 projects substantially perpendicularly from one of the pairs of projections 746. One end of an extension spring 762 is placed around each extension spring 760. The extension springs 762 will be made later.
[0626] [00626] Extending from the top edge of the right end cover 745 towards the fixed gripper assembly 703 can be a guide piece 748. The guide piece 748 can be extend parallel to the plane of the bottom face 743 of housing 712. The piece 748 may protrude from the bottom face 743 of housing 712. As shown, the guide piece 748 in Figures 8A to 8D can be understood only from the middle section of the top edge of the cover from the right end 745.
[0627] [00627] The right end cover 745 may also comprise a pair of U-shaped brackets 747. In the embodiment shown, the U-shaped brackets 747 are arranged on the right end cover 745 so that the verticals of each bracket U-shape 747 protrude in the same direction and plane as the pair of projections 746. One of the vertical sections of a U-shape bracket 747 can be flush with the front edge of the right end cover 745 and be close to the inner face the front wall when the clamp device 710 is mounted. One of the vertical sections of the other U-shaped bracket 747 can be flush with the rear edge of the right end cover 745 and be close to the inner face of the rear wall 742 of housing 712 when the clamp apparatus 710 is mounted. The other vertical part of each U 747 shaped bracket can be moved from the first vertical part of each U 747 shaped bracket so that it is very close to the 760 extension spring dies. U-shaped bracket 747 can be formed through a face of the right end cover 745. In alternative modalities, the quantity, location and orientation of projections 746, U-shaped brackets 747, spring-loaded dies 760 and spring springs extension 762 may be different.
[0628] [00628] In the embodiment shown in Figures 8A to 8D, the switch handle 750 is pivotally coupled to the inside of the U-shaped brackets 747. As shown, this is achieved by means of point pins 749 extending through the brackets in the shape of U 747 and into the coupling intervals 752 of the switch handle 750. The switch handle 750 in the exemplary mode can be divided into several sections. As indicated above, the switch clamp may have one or more coupling intervals 752 to which other components of the clamp apparatus 710 can be attached. Referring to Figure 8D, the coupling intervals 752 are two vertical intervals. As shown, the coupling intervals 752 are offset from each other. Extending towards the right of the page from each coupling interval 752 at an angle approximately perpendicular to each coupling interval 752 can be a horizontal interval 753. Horizontal intervals 753 can be joined using a brace 754. In some embodiments, the strut 754 can complete the switch handle 750. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 8A to 8D, the switch handle 750 comprises additional sections. Projecting from strut 754 vertically towards the top of the page (in relation to Figure 8D) are two extension intervals 757. Extension intervals 757 can be connected via a handle grip 758 that a user can hold when acting on switch handle 750.
[0629] [00629] At least a portion of the handle grip 758 may be produced from the same material as the rest of the switch handle 750, may be produced from a different material or may be produced from a combination thereof. Possible materials may include, but are not limited to, rubber, polymer, composite, metal, plastic, foam, fabric, etc. In addition, the handle grip 758 can comprise ergonomic finger grooves, knots, a ribbed texture, a honeycomb texture, etc. to make it easier for the user to hold and grab.
[0630] [00630] In addition to the coupling intervals 752 that couple the switch handle 750 to the clamp apparatus 710, the coupling intervals 752 may also comprise a pair of spring extension screw heads 763. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 8A to 8D, one of a pair of handle extension spring heads 763 protrudes perpendicularly from each coupling interval 752 of switch handle 750. In the exemplary embodiment in Figures 8A to 8D, handle extension spring heads 763 protrude from the surface of each coupling gap 752 that faces the opposite coupling gap 752. The end of each extension spring 762 not seated on the first pair of extension spring screws 760 is seated around one or of the pair of handle extension spring dies 763. In the exemplary embodiment in Figures 8A to 8D, extension springs 762 act as central springs. When switch handle 750 is in the open position, extension springs 762 deflect switch handle 750 to remain in the open position. When switch handle 750 is in the closed position, extension springs 762 move to a central position and deflect switch handle 750 to remain in the closed position.
[0631] [00631] Coupling intervals 752 of switch handle 750 can be additionally coupled to connections 770. In the exemplary embodiment in Figure 8A to 8D, one end of each connection 770 is pivotally coupled to the driven member 720. As shown, a connection 770 is pivotally coupled between the front vertical wall 723 of the driven member 720 and the vertical gap of appendix 725 that extends from the front vertical wall 723 of the driven member 720. Also as shown in Figures 8A to 8D, the other connection 770 is pivotally coupled between the rear vertical wall 724 of the driven member 720 and the vertical gap of appendix 725 that extends from the rear vertical wall 724 of the driven member 720. In the exemplary embodiment in Figures 8A to 8D, a tip 771 is used to pivotally connect connections 770 to the driven member 720.
[0632] [00632] The other end of each connection 770 is pivotally coupled to the top of one of the coupling intervals 752 of the switch handle 750. The connection 770 and the coupling intervals 752 can be pivotally coupled by means of a pin coupling tip 772. Any other suitable coupling means can also be used.
[0633] [00633] When the clamp device 710 is actuated, the coupling interval 752 of the switch handle 750 and the connections 770 can collectively act as a central connection. To actuate the switch handle 750, a user can hold the handle grip 758 of the switch handle 750. The user can then rotate the switch handle 750 substantially 90 degrees counterclockwise from the orientation of the switch. handle switch handle 750 shown in Figure 8A. In some embodiments, the sufficient degree of rotation may be greater or lesser (for example, 95 °). As the switch handle 750 is rotated, the connection 770 and the coupling gap 752 comprising the central connection move towards the central position. This drives the driven member 720 and the movable gripper assembly 704 as detailed above. Slightly before the switch handle 750 is rotated a full 90 ° counterclockwise, connection 770 and the coupling gap 752 comprising the central connection reach the central position. When the connection and the coupling gap 752 comprising the central connection reach the central position, a large force is generated in the mobile gripper assembly 704 by applying only a small amount of force to the switch handle 750. When the switch handle 750 is rotated through a full 90 ° counterclockwise, connection 770 and the coupling gap 752 comprising the central connection reach the central position that keeps switch handle 750 and clamp device 710 in the closed and clamped position and acts as a passive lock. This clamping action makes the actuation of the 710 clamp apparatus easy for the user, while also providing sufficiently strong clamping force.
[0634] [00634] In some embodiments, the switch handle 750 comprises a switch handle closure 780 that operatively secures the switch handle 750 and the clamp apparatus 710 in the closed and clamped position. The switch handle lock 780 can be arranged over the handle grip 758 of the switch handle 750 so that it fits in a hollow 759 in the handle grip 758. The switch handle lock 780 can be pivotably attached to the handle grip 758 and can be pivotable between a forward position and a retracted position. In some embodiments, a pivot pin bearing 781 extends the length of the switch handle clasp 780. In the embodiment shown in Figures 8A to 8D, the pivot pin bearing 781 extends along the bottom edge of the clasp lock. switch handle 780. A pivot pin 782 can pivotably attach the switch handle lock 780 to the handle grip 758 extending through the pivot pin bearing 781 and into at least part of the grip handle. handle 758.
[0635] [00635] In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in Figures 8A to 8D, the switch handle closure 780 can be adapted so that a torsion spring 783 can be slid over at least a portion of the pivot pin bearing 781 The torsion spring 783 can shift switch handle closure 780 to the forward position. When the switch handle lock 780 is pivoted towards the stowed position, the torsion spring 783 is rebounded so that the restoring force of the torque lock 783 causes the switch handle lock 780 to automatically pivot back to the forward position. In the forward position, the 780 switch handle closure is in its most protruding position. In the stowed position, the switch handle lock 780 is pushed into the hollow 759 so that it protrudes minimally from the handle grip 758.
[0636] [00636] In some embodiments, the switch handle closure 780 may comprise a stop surface 784 along a portion of at least one face of the switch handle closure 780. The stop surface 784 attaches to a portion of the hollow 759 in the handle grip 758 and ensures that the torsion spring 783 cannot eject the switch handle closure 780 out of the hollow 759.
[0637] [00637] The switch handle closure 780 may also comprise a closure projection 785. The closure projection 785 in the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 8A to 8D extends substantially along the entire length of the switch handle closure 780 and projects the switch handle closure 780 toward the bottom of the page (relative to Figure 8D). This can be different in alternative modalities.
[0638] [00638] In some embodiments, the left face (in relation to Figure 8D) of the fixed grab holder 711 comprises a ramp fastener 786 for the lock projection 785 of the switch handle fastener 780. The fastener 786 in alternative modes does not you need to understand a ramp. The fastener 786 can take any other suitable shape.
[0639] [00639] In the exemplary embodiment in Figures 8A to 8D, as the switch handle 750 and the switch handle lock 780 are rotated towards the closed position, the lock projection 785 of the switch handle lock 780 approaches of the fastener ramp 786. As the switch handle 750 continues to rotate towards the closed position, the closing projection 785 of the switch handle fastener 780 goes up the fastener ramp 786. This causes the handle fastener switch 780 is pivoted to the stowed position, that is, into the hollow 759 of the handle grip 758. This in turn twists the torsion spring 783 and stores mechanical energy in the torsion spring 783. When the switch 750 is in the fully closed position, the closing projection 785 of the switch handle closure 780 unclogs the fastener ramp 786 and the restoring force of the torsion spring 783 causes the switch handle closure 780 to bounce back to the advanced position. This locks the clamp apparatus 710 in the closed position since any movement towards the open position is prevented by the closing projection 785 of the switch handle closure 780 that grips the edge of the clamp ramp 786.
[0640] [00640] To rotate the switch handle 750 back towards the open position and / or untangle the clamp device 710, a user must manually push the switch handle closure 780 to the stowed position. This allows the closing projection 785 of the switch handle closure 780 to unclog the edge of the fastener ramp 786 thereby allowing the rotation of the switch handle 750 towards the open position.
[0641] [00641] In some embodiments, the switch handle closure 780 may have several contours that provide an ergonomic benefit to the user as a user tries to lower the switch handle closure 780 to the stowed position when opening the 710 clamp apparatus. As shown in Figures 8A to 8D, the switch handle closure 780 comprises a valley 788 that can better accommodate a user's fingertips as he pivots the switch handle closure 780 to the stowed position. In other modalities, there may be additional ergonomic contours that supplement or replace the 788 voucher.
[0642] [00642] In some embodiments that include a switch handle 750 or actuator similar to the switch handle 750, the switch handle 750 or the switch handle closure 780 may include a crush feature (not shown) to prevent a user crush a finger while turning the switch handle 750 to the closed position. In some embodiments, the crushing feature can be a guard boss. In other embodiments, the crushing feature may be a gripping portion extended on the switch handle 750 that distances a user's fingers from the lock projection 785 and the fastener 786.
[0643] [00643] In some embodiments, the housing 712 of the clamp apparatus 710 may also have any of a variety of mechanisms 790 (shown) for securing a load to the clamp apparatus 710. Such mechanisms may include, but are not limited to, brackets , magnets, strips, suction cups, hooks, screws, bolts, a friction fit, etc. This charge can be several things, especially a medical device (such as an infusion pump or peristaltic infusion pump), IV bag, etc.
[0644] [00644] In some embodiments, the clamp apparatus 710 can be adapted so that the fixed gripper assembly 703 and the mobile gripper assembly 704 can be oriented obliquely to the right and left ends (in relation to Figure 8D) of the housing 712. In the modalities in which the gripper assemblies 703 and 704 are oriented obliquely, any load attached to the clamp apparatus 710 through any one of a variety of mechanisms 790 detailed above would be at an oblique angle to a clamped object 100 clamped on the 710 forceps apparatus. Such guidance can be useful in accommodating the needs of a load attached to the clamp apparatus 710 through any one of a variety of mechanisms 790 described in the previous paragraph.
[0645] [00645] Figures 8E to 8F show an alternative embodiment of the example clamp apparatus 710 shown in Figures 8A to 8D. As shown, the alternative embodiment of the clamp apparatus 710 shown in Figure 8E comprises a fixed gripper assembly 703 similar to the fixed gripper assembly 703 shown in Figures 8A to 8D. The fixed gripper set 703 in Figure 8E is considerably simplified and allows the gripper device 710 to have a more open concept, which facilitates cleaning. The fixed gripper assembly 703 in Figure 8E does not include a fixed gripper base 717 as it includes in Figures 8A to 8D. The fixed gripper assembly in Figure 8E has two support legs 4000. Each support leg 4000 can be attached to the left side (in relation to Figure 8E) of the fixed grip support 711. The support legs 4000 can be attached to the support of fixed grip 711 at an angle that is substantially perpendicular to the left face of the fixed grip support 711. In some embodiments, including the embodiment shown in Figure 8E, the support legs 4000 can be formed as a continuous part of the fixed grip support 711b.
[0646] [00646] A support leg 4000 can be attached to the fixed grab holder 711 near the front edge of the fixed grab holder 711. The second support leg 4000 can be attached to the fixed grab holder 711 next to the rear edge of the support fixed grip 711. The support legs 4000 are slightly arched in the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 8E. As shown, the width of the support legs 4000 can gradually decrease as the support legs 4000 extend towards the bottom of the page. The bottom of the support legs 4000 can be substantially parallel to the elongation direction of the housing 712.
[0647] [00647] As shown in the exemplary embodiment in Figures 8E, the threaded holes 791 that are located in the fixed handle base 717 in Figures 8A to 8D can be arranged at the bottom of the support legs 4000. The threaded holes 791 can extend through the bottom of the support legs 4000 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the front and rear faces of each support leg 4000. As shown, four screws 714 can extend through the housing 712 of the clamp apparatus 710 and into the corresponding threaded holes 791 at the bottom of the support legs 4000, thus coupling the fixed gripper assembly 703 to the housing 712.
[0648] [00648] As shown, the alternative embodiment of the clamp apparatus 710 shown in Figures 8E to 8F comprises a movable gripper assembly 704 similar to the movable gripper assembly 704 shown in Figures 8A to 8D. As shown, the movable grip assembly 704 comprises a grip frame 705. The grip frame 705 can be approximately flat and rectangular. The grip frame 705 in Figures 8E to 8F is approximately flat and rectangular, although one end of the rectangular grip frame 705 is rounded. The grip frame 705 may comprise a dovetail cutout 4002 as shown in Figure 8E. The 705 grip frame can be extruded.
[0649] [00649] The dovetail cutout 4002 of the grip frame 705 can be dimensioned to accommodate and slide along a dovetail projection 4004 in housing 712 of the clamp apparatus 710. As shown in the exemplary embodiment in Figure 8E, the dovetail projection 4004 in housing 712 can extend approximately parallel to the front wall 741 and the rear wall 742 of housing 712. The dovetail projection 4004 in housing 712 can be extend along the middle portion of the bottom face 743 of the housing 712.
[0650] [00650] As shown in Figure 8E, housing 712 may include scroll rails 4006. As shown, scroll rails 4006 are similar to grooved rails 740 shown in Figures 8A to 8D. The roller tracks for housing 712 will be further elaborated later. Housing 712 can also include any number of housing voids 4008. Housing voids 4008 can be cut off in housing 712 or can be created during the manufacture of housing 712. Housing voids 4008 help prevent debris and unwanted matter accumulate inside and on the 710 forceps apparatus. The empty housing spaces 4008 can also assist in making the 710 forceps apparatus easier to clean. In some embodiments, housing 712 can be extruded. In such embodiments, the clamp 710 can be extruded from any suitable material.
[0651] [00651] The movable gripper assembly 704 can comprise several additional components in addition to the gripper frame 705. Projecting perpendicularly from the top face of the gripper frame 705 on the right (in relation to Figure 8E) of the gripper frame 705 there can be a spring housing 4010. The spring housing 4010 can project in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the top face of the grip frame 705. The spring housing 4010 can be dimensioned so that the sides of the housing spring 4010 are flush with the edges of the grip frame 705. The spring housing 4010 can be coupled to the grip frame 705 through any of a variety of securing means.
[0652] [00652] In some embodiments, the mobile grab holder 706 can be attached to the left side (in relation to Figure 8E) of the spring housing 4010. In such embodiments, the mobile grab holder 706 can be attached to the spring housing 4010 through any suitable fixation. In the exemplary embodiment, the mobile gripper support 706 is produced as a continuous part of the spring housing 4010. As shown, the mobile gripper support 706 is arranged on the spring housing 4010 so that it is at substantially the same height as the support of fixed grip 703.
[0653] [00653] As shown in the cross section of the clamp apparatus 710 in Figure 8F, the spring housing 4010 is substantially hollow. Within the hollow portion of the spring housing 4010, a spring of constant force 4012 is housed. In some embodiments, there may be more than one 4012 constant force spring housed in the 4010 spring housing. The 4012 constant force spring, in some exemplary embodiments, may be a coiled spring steel tape. The 4012 constant force spring can be a laminar spring. In some embodiments, the 4012 constant force spring may be a triple laminar spring. In some embodiments, the constant force spring 4012 may be an approximately constant force spring 4012 191b. The use of a 4012 constant force spring provides several benefits over the varieties of bypass members as detailed above.
[0654] [00654] As shown, the spring of constant force 4012 can be arranged around a spindle 4014 that can rotate around the geometric axis of a spindle 4016. In the exemplary embodiment, spindle 4014 is a solid spindle. In other embodiments, the 4014 mandrel may not be solid. In some embodiments, the 4014 mandrel may be a hollow cylinder. In some embodiments, the 4014 mandrel may be mainly hollow and comprise several support spokes. The axis 4016 can span through the hollow section of the spring housing 4010. The axis 4016 can extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the front wall 741 and the rear wall 742 of the housing 712 shown in Figure 8E.
[0655] [00655] In the exemplary embodiment in Figure 8F, the grip frame 705 has an elevated section 705a. The raised section 705a of the grip frame 705 projects from the grip frame 705 towards the top of the page in a manner substantially perpendicular to the rest of the grip frame 705. As shown, a small gap 4018 can be left between the top of the raised portion 705a of the grip frame 705 and the bottom of the left side of the spring housing 4010. The constant force spring 4012 can extend out of the spring housing 4010 through the small gap 4018.
[0656] [00656] To help prevent debris and other matter from entering spring housing 4010, spring housing sealing member 4020 can be placed on the bottom of the left side of spring housing 4010. As shown in the exemplary embodiment in Figure 8F, a part of the spring housing sealing member 4020 may be seated in a recessed cavity within the bottom face on the left side of the spring housing 4010. The spring housing sealing member 4020 can be produced from a deformable material. As the constant force spring 4012 is advanced and retracted out and back into the spring housing 4010 during operation of the clamp apparatus 710, the spring housing sealing member 4020 blocks any debris or other matter in the constant force spring 4012 from being pulled into the spring housing 4010 as the constant force spring 4012 retracts back into the spring housing 4010.
[0657] [00657] One end of the constant force spring 4012 can be located externally in relation to the spring housing 4010 at all times. The end of the constant force spring 4012 located externally in relation to the spring housing 4010 can be fixedly coupled to the roller shaft 4022. By pulling the roller shaft 4022 towards the left of the page (in relation to Figure 8F), the constant force spring 4012 is unwound and spirally exits the spring housing 4010. If the roller shaft 4022 is released, the restoring force of the constant force spring 4012 will cause the roller shaft 4022 to deflect from returns to the position shown in Figure 8F. The 4012 constant force spring will also retract back into the 4010 spring housing.
[0658] [00658] A 4024 roller can be deposited at each end of the 4022 roller shaft. One of the 4024 rollers is visible in Figure 8F. Rollers 4024 can rotate around the geometric axis of roller shaft 4022. As shown in Figures 8E to 8F, rollers 4024 can extend and roll along the roller tracks 4006 on the front wall 741 and on the back wall 742 of the housing 712.
[0659] [00659] Referring again to Figure 8E, connections 770 extending from switch handle 750 can be coupled to roller shaft 4022. In such a way, roller shaft 4022 functions similarly to the member 720 in Figures 8A to 8D and can be called an alternate driven member. When the clamp apparatus 710 is actuated from the open position to a clamped position by rotating the switch handle 750, the roller shaft 4022 moves towards the fixed grip assembly 703 and the rollers 4024 on the roller shaft. 4022 slides along the roller tracks 4006 over housing 712. This in turn moves the movable gripper assembly 704 towards the fixed gripper assembly 703. Until the movable gripper 701 contacts a clamped object 100, the roller shaft 4022 and the movable gripper assembly 703 move as a unit. When the movable gripper 701 comes into contact with a gripped object 100, the movable gripper assembly 704 can no longer advance towards the fixed gripper assembly 703 due to the fact that the gripped object 100 is in the path. The roller shaft 4022 continues to move towards the fixed gripper assembly 703. This causes the constant force spring 4012 to be pulled out of the spring housing 4010. The restoring force of the constant force spring 4012 causes that the mobile gripper assembly 704 exerts a more vigorous clamping force on the clamped object 100.
[0660] [00660] When the clamp device 710 is moved from the clamped position towards an open position by rotating the switch handle 750, the restoring force of the constant force spring 4012 can automatically ricochet the clamp device 710 from returns to the unchanged and open position.
[0661] [00661] Figure 8G shows an alternative embodiment of a mobile gripper assembly 7000 with a housing 7005 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The mobile gripper assembly 7000 may be similar to the mobile gripper assembly shown in Figure 8F. The movable gripper assembly 7000 includes a movable gripper 7001, a driven member 7002 and a gripper frame 7003 with a housing 7005. The driven member 7002 is guided through guide members 7008 along a track 7006. Note that the spring contact force 7010 (for example, spring 4012 as shown in Figure 8F) is attached to the driven member 7002 by means of fasteners 7004. A SUPPORT APPARATUS
[0662] [00662] Figure 9a depicts an exemplary embodiment of a support 1810. The support 1810 includes a support mast in cylindrical shape 1812. A set of 1814 clamps can be attached to a first end part of the support mast 1812. The set collet 1814 can additionally include a collet mechanism 1818 and an elongated U-shaped handle 1820 that can be oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal geometric axis of the support mast 1812. Collet assembly 1814 and collet mechanism 1818 can be configured to be removably attached to a support structure, such as an IV drip mast. As should be noted by elements of ordinary skill in the art, any number of clamp mechanisms can be used to achieve this goal, including the clamp mechanisms described below and above. The handle 1820 allows the 1810 support and any medical devices received to be transported as a unit from one location to another. In certain embodiments, the handle 1820 can serve as a means to actuate the 1818 collet mechanism. One of such modalities could include a handle 1820 that shares a geometric axis of rotation with a 1818 collet mechanism, in which the 1818 collet mechanism includes at least one fixed gripper and at least one movable gripper that can be attached to the handle 1820. The action of the gripper mechanism 1818 can be achieved by rotating the handle 1820 in a first direction so that the at least one mobile gripper rotates towards at least one fixed gripper and a support structure between them. The at least one movable gripper and the at least one fixed gripper can be secured in a clamped position by means of a lock or any other means known in the relevant art when the aforementioned grippers exert sufficient clamping force on the support structure. Rotating the handle 1820 in a second opposite direction can rotate the at least one movable gripper in the opposite direction to the at least one fixed gripper and the 1818 gripper mechanism can be detached from the support structure when the at least one movable gripper is sufficiently far from the support structure.
[0663] [00663] A variety of medical device assemblies can be arranged between the first end and a second end of the support mast 1812. Figures 9a and 9b depict an exemplary embodiment in which the assemblies can be elongated support plates that extend perpendicularly to the support mast 1812. Figure 9a depicts a support 1810 having a first support plate 1822, a second support plate 1824 and a third support plate 1826. Figure 9b depicts an embodiment of an individual support plate 1856. The 1856 support plate can be sized to receive and support a medical device. Examples of medical devices that can be received through the 1856 support plate include syringe pumps, infusion pumps, dialysis machines, pill dispensers and chemotherapy devices. A first end portion of the support plate 1856 can be attached to the support mast 1812 with the use of a joint member 1830. The support plate 1856 can include a first projection of the support plate 1834 and a second projection of the support plate bracket 1836 that can interface with joint member 1830 (see Figure 9C) to facilitate coupling. To receive and retain a medical device more securely, the support plate 1856 may include a flange 1828 which extends upwardly from a second end portion of the support plate 1856.
[0664] [00664] To reduce the need to extend power cables from electrical outlets to each individual medical device, each 1856 support plate can include an 1838 mounting connector that can be adapted to transmit electrical power to a received medical device. In certain embodiments, the 1838 mounting connector can also be adapted to enable signals to be communicated between two or more medical devices and thus provide each medical device with a network connection.
[0665] [00665] In the embodiment depicted in Figure 9a, a corresponding number of joint members 1830 couple each of the support plates 1822, 1824, 1826 to the support mast 1812. Each joint member 1830 can be configured to receive a support plate 1856 so that the joint member 1830 allows the received support plate 1856 to rotate around a longitudinal geometric axis of the support mast 1812. Figure 9c depicts an exemplary joint member 1830 that allows rotation around an axis longitudinal geometric shape of the support mast 1812. The joint member 1830 may include a groove member 1862 that is sized to receive the support mast 1812. The joint member 1830 can be rotated and retained to the support mast 1812 by the loosening of a 1844 threaded screw, the turning of the example joint member 1830 and a support plate received 1856 to the desired position and the tightening of the threaded screw again of 1844.
[0666] [00666] As shown in Figure 9c, the exemplary joint member 1830 may include a first clamp arm 1846 and a second clamp arm 1848, each having an internal surface that forms a portion of the groove member 1862 The first and second clamping arms 1846, 1848 may also include a first threaded groove 1850 and a second threaded groove 1852, respectively. The first threaded groove 1850 and the second threaded groove 1852 can be aligned along an AA line and each can be sized to receive the 1844 threaded screw. As will be understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art, turn the 1844 threaded screw in a first direction, usually clockwise, can pull the first and second clamping arms 1846, 1848 towards each other and allow the 1862 joint member groove to exert a predominantly horizontal force against a received support mast 1812 , so that the received support mast 1812 can support, against the force of gravity, the weight of the joint member 1830, the received support plate 1856 and any medical devices received. Turning the threaded screw 1844 in a second opposite direction and generally counterclockwise can separate the first and second clamping arms 1846, 1848 from each other and can reduce the force applied to the support mast 1812 through the groove member. gasket 1862 and can enable the gasket member 1830 to be rotated around the support mast 1812.
[0667] [00667] In addition, the hinge member 1830 can be hingedly attached to a support plate received 1856 and the hinge member 1830 can be placed in one of a vertical orientation or a horizontal orientation, so that the hinge plate support received 1856 (i.e., 1822, 1824, 1826 in Figure 9a) can rotate in a transverse plane or a longitudinal plane of the support mast 1812. Figures 9b and 9c, respectively, depict an embodiment of the present disclosure in which a plate support frame 1856 and a joint member 1830 are configured to be coupled through hinges and where the resulting hinge joint can be placed in a substantially horizontal orientation, so that the support plate 1856 can rotate in a longitudinal plane of the mast of support 1812. Figure 9a depicts a modality in which the support 1810 includes three of this type of coupling mechanism. Alternatively, an 1856 support plate or other type of medical device assembly can be fixed and rigidly coupled to the support mast 1812 in different modalities.
[0668] [00668] In the embodiment depicted in Figure 9b, support plate 1856 may include a first projection of support plate 1834 and a second projection of support plate 1836 that extends in substantially parallel directions from a first end portion of the support plate 1856. The first support plate projection 1834 and the second support plate projection 1836 include, respectively, a first support plate slot 1858 and a second support plate slot 1862 that can be aligned along a BB line and each one is dimensioned to receive an 1842 pin.
[0669] [00669] In the embodiment depicted in Figure 9c, joint member 1830 may include a first joint member projection 1832 and a second joint member projection 1856 that extend in substantially parallel directions. The first joint member projection 1832 and the second joint member projection 1856 may include, respectively, a first joint member groove 1864 and a second joint member groove 1866 that can be aligned along a line BB and each of which is sized to receive an 1842 pin.
[0670] [00670] To hinge the support plate 1856 to the joint member 1830 as shown in Figure 9a, the first and second projections of the support plate 1834, 1836 and the first and second projections of the joint member 1832, 1856 (now also referring to Figures 9b ac) can be dimensioned and arranged respectively on the support plate 1856 and the joint member 1830, so that the respective projections 1832, 1834, 1836, 1856 can be interspersed. The grooves 1864, 1866 of the joint member 1830 are configured to align with the grooves 1860, 1858 of the support plate 1856, so that all four grooves 1858, 1862, 1864, 1866 line up along the BB line when the four projections 1832, 1834, 1836, 1856 are interspersed. When properly aligned, a pin 1842 can be inserted through the four grooves 1858, 1862, 1864, 1866 and retained in them, so that the joint member 1830 retains the support plate 1856. As will be understood by people of ordinary skill in the Several methods are available to maintain the position of the 1856 support plate around the 1842 pin. In certain embodiments, the friction between the interspersed projections 1832, 1834, 1836, 1856 and / or the friction between the 1842 pin and the four grooves 1858, 1862, 1864, 1866 in which the pin 1842 is arranged may be sufficient to maintain the position of the support plate 1856 around the pin 1842. Any other structure known to an element of common skill in the relevant art may secure the member gasket 1830 to the support plate 1856.
[0671] [00671] In other embodiments, the position of the 1856 support plate around the 1842 pin can be maintained in one of several predefined positions through a detent pin (not shown) that can engage one of several detectors (not shown) in one internal projection of joint member. The holders can be inscribed in an annular way in several positions around the pin 1842. In the modalities that have such holders, a slot of the holding pin can retain the holding pin and be arranged in an external projection of support plate in order to allow that the detent pin selectively engages any detent in the internal projection of the joint member. Once a healthcare professional engages the retaining pin with the appropriate retainer, the retainer and retaining pin can prevent the 1856 support plate from rotating out of the selected position.
[0672] [00672] In specific modalities, such as the modality depicted in Figure 9a, the weight of multiple medical devices received can cause the 1810 support to become unbalanced and begin to rotate around the point where the 1818 clamp mechanism is coupled to a support structure like an IV drip mast. To mitigate this type of rotation, a base member 1816 can be employed, which exerts a stabilizing force on the support structure. As shown in Figure 9a, the base member 1816 can comprise an elongated housing 1868 that is coupled to a second end portion of the support mast 1812 and which extends perpendicularly to the support mast 1812. The base member 1816 can include a rounded slit 1840 that is configured to be close to a substantially cylindrical support structure. Slit 1840 can be arranged on the elongated housing 1868 so that the base member 1816 and the clamp mechanism 1818 position the support mast 1812 in a separate relationship with and substantially parallel to an elongated cylindrical support structure such as a support mast. intravenous serum. In other embodiments, the base member may comprise a second collet assembly such as collet assembly 1814 that can be coupled to the first end of the support mast 1812.
[0673] [00673] An advantage of the exemplary embodiment depicted in Figure 9a, is that the base member 1816 and the elongated housing 1868 can serve other functions in addition to providing a counterbalancing force for the 1810 support. For example, the elongated housing 1868 can serve as a bedside surface on which a health care professional can temporarily store items that are needed to care for a patient. In another embodiment, the elongated housing 1868 could also be configured to receive a medical device and include the same features as an 1856 support plate, such as an 1838 mounting connector that is configured to provide one of two or as much electrical power as one network connection for a received medical device. In embodiments where the base member 1816 does not include an elongated housing 1868, the base member 1816 can, however, be configured to receive power and provide a network connection to an additional medical device.
[0674] [00674] Another advantage of the exemplary embodiment depicted in Figure 9a and the exemplary base member 1816 depicted in Figure 9d is that the elongated housing 1868 can provide space to contain certain elements of a feeding system. Figure 9d depicts an exemplary power system that includes an 1870 power supply, an 1872 power connector, 1874 power transmission cables, and an 1876 main power cable. As discussed above, modalities that include a power system can have the advantage of reducing the amount of cables that are needed to power incoming medical devices. Instead of having to extend a separate power cable from an electrical outlet for each medical device, a single power cable can be connected from an electrical outlet to an 1872 power connector that is preferably located over the 1868 elongated housing base member 1816. An 1876 main power cable can then deliver power to an 1870 power supply. The 1870 power supply can be configured to convert a balanced or unbalanced AC current to direct the current and supply the voltage and ampere rating for any medical devices received. A respective 1874 power transmission cable can be used to transmit electrical power from the 1870 power supply to a respective 1838 mounting connector and a received medical device. 1874 power transmission cables can provide one or more DC voltages for use through any medical devices received. In certain embodiments, the respective power transmission cable 1874 can extend operatively from an 1870 power supply, even through a hollow support mast 1812, and can be operationally distributed to the respective mounting connector 1838. Each of the 1856 support plates may include an 1838 mounting connector and receive a corresponding 1874 power transmission cable that enables the 1838 mounting connector to provide electrical power to a received medical device. In some embodiments, a common power bus can be positioned inside an 1812 hollow support mast that receives power from the 1874 power transmission cables; each 1838 mounting connector can be electrically coupled to the power bus.
[0675] [00675] In addition to supplying power to a received medical device, the exemplary mounting connector 1838 depicted in Figure 9b can be configured to provide a network connection to a received medical device. In the modalities that can receive two or more medical devices, it can be advantageous to allow the received medical devices to communicate with each other. For example, a patient may need a regimen of several different drugs that are administered via respective syringe pumps. In other cases, it may be desirable to have an alternate infusion of the same drug with the use of two or more pumps. Enabling the 1810 support to transmit signals between network-capable syringe pumps can allow each syringe pump to know how much of which drugs have been delivered by the other syringe pumps in the 1810 support network. To achieve this goal, exemplary modalities such as embodiment depicted in Figure 9a may include a central bus 1878 which is operationally coupled to the support mast 1812. Each of the support plates 1856 may include a bus of the support plate 1880 which interfaces operationally with the central bus 1878 and which is coupled to an 1838 mounting connector.
[0676] [00676] In some modalities, each medical device received can broadcast its data along the central bus 1878. In other modalities, a shift-based communication scheme can be used by the medical devices received to communicate with each other using the central bus 1878. Also in additional modalities, a multiple access in the sense of carrier with optional collision prevention communication scheme can be used by medical devices when communicating through the central bus 1878.
[0677] [00677] Yet another advantage of the exemplary modality of the support 1810 depicted in Figure 9a and the exemplary base member 1816 depicted in Figure 9d is that the elongated housing 1868 can optionally include provisions, such as casters and the like, to couple with two or more wheels. In addition to the handle 1820, the wheels can allow the 1810 support to be more easily moved from one location to another, particularly when transporting multiple received medical devices. As should be understood by people who have common skill in the art, the wheels can be attached to the elongated housing 1868 by various well-known means. In addition, two or more wheels can be coupled to a wheel assembly structure that allows the wheels to be coupled to or decoupled from the elongated housing 1868 as a group. In other exemplary embodiments, the support mast 1812 may include provisions for mounting two or more wheels or a set of wheels.
[0678] [00678] Figure 9e depicts an exemplary embodiment of a 6010 support. The 6010 support includes a 6012 cylindrical support mast. A 6018 clamp mechanism and a 6020 U-shaped handle on a 6021 handle plate can be oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal geometric axis of the support mast 6012. The clamp mechanism 6018 can be configured to be removably coupled to a support structure 6014 such as an IV drip mast. As should be noted by elements of common skill in the art, several 6018 clamp mechanisms can be used to achieve this goal, including the clamp mechanisms described below and above. The 6020 handle allows the 6010 support and any medical devices received to be transported as a unit from one location to another. In certain embodiments, the handle 6020 can serve as a means to actuate the 6018 collet mechanism. One such arrangement could include a 6020 handle that shares a geometric axis of rotation with a 6018 collet mechanism, in which the 6018 collet mechanism includes at least one fixed gripper and at least one movable gripper that can be coupled to the 6020 handle. The actuation of the 6018 gripper mechanism can be achieved by rotating the 6020 handle in a first direction so that the at least one mobile gripper rotates towards at least one fixed gripper and a support structure 6014 between them. The at least one movable gripper and the at least one fixed gripper can be secured in a clamped position by means of a lock or any other means known in the relevant art when the aforementioned grippers exert sufficient clamping force on the support structure 6014. Rotate the handle 6020 in a second opposite direction can rotate the at least one movable gripper in the opposite direction to the at least one fixed gripper and the gripper mechanism 6018 can be detached from the support structure 6014 when the at least one movable gripper is sufficiently far from the support structure 6014.
[0679] [00679] A variety of medical device assemblies can be arranged between the first end and a second end of the support mast 6012. Figure 9e depicts an exemplary embodiment in which the assemblies can be elongated support plates that extend perpendicularly to the mast support plate 6012. Figure 9e depicts a support 6010 that has a first support plate 6022, a second support plate 6024 and a third support plate 6026. The first support plate 6022, the second support plate 6024 and the third support plate 6026 can be sized to receive and support a medical device such as any of those described above. An end portion of each of the first support plate 6022, a second support plate 6024 and a third support plate 6026 can be attached to the support mast 6012 through a joint member 6016. The joint member 6016 can be similar to the joint member 1830 described above.
[0680] [00680] The third support plate 6026 Can perform the same function as the base member 1816 and elongated housing 1868 in Figures 9a to d. In some embodiments, the third support plate 6026 can also accommodate elements of a supply system such as the supply system described above and may include a 6038 mounting connector (best shown in Figure 10E) that is configured to provide one or both between electrical power and a network connection to a received medical device. As described above with reference to Figures 9a to d the first support plate 6022, the second support plate 6024 and the third support plate 6026 can each include a mounting connector 6038.
[0681] [00681] As shown in Figure 9e, the first support plate 6022, a second support plate 6024 and a third support plate 6026, each can include a first guide rail 6034 and a second guide rail 6028. According to shown, the third support plate 6026 includes only a first guide rail 6034. As shown, the handle plate 6021 also includes a guide plate guide 6033. The guide tracks 6033 can be the sides of the guide rails 6026, 6034, 6029 or they can be projections that project from the first support plate 6022, the second support plate 6024 and the third support plate 6026 or the handle plate 6021. In the modalities in which the 6033 guide tracks are projections, the 6033 guide tracks can define the sides of the 6026, 6034, 6029 guide rails. As shown in the example in Figure 9e, the ends of the tracks 6033 can be bent out or out an angle in the opposite direction to the longitudinal geometric axis of the guide rails 6026, 6034, 6029. This can allow a medical device to be easily and slightly slid into the guide rails 6026, 6034, 6029 and attached to the plates. brackets 6022, 6024, 6026. In some embodiments, the medical device may include a feature or features such as 6062 flanges (see Figure 10d) that can be sized to fit inside the 6026, 6034, 6029 guide rails.
[0682] [00682] Figure 9f depicts an exemplary embodiment of a support 7010. The support 7010 includes a support mast 7012. A mechanism or clamp assembly (not shown) can be attached to a first end part of the support mast 7012. The support 7010 may include a handle 7020 that can be oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal geometric axis of the support mast 7012. The mechanism or clamp assembly can be configured to be removably attached to a support structure such as an IV drip mast. . As should be noted by the elements of ordinary skill in the art, several clamp mechanisms or sets can be used to achieve this goal, including the clamp mechanisms and sets described in this document. The 7020 handle allows the 7010 support and any medical devices received to be transported as a unit from one location to another. In certain embodiments, the 7020 handle can be used to actuate the clamp mechanism or clamp assembly. The exemplary support 7010 shown in Figure 9f also includes a suspensor feature 7014 that can be used, for example, to suspend IV bags, IV lines, etc.
[0683] [00683] Support 7010 may include a base member 7016 similar to that described in Figure 9d. In such embodiments, the base member 7016 may include, for example, certain elements of a feeding system. The base member 7016 can also include certain components of a communication system. The base member 7016 may include wheels to assist in transporting the 7010 support and any attached medical devices.
[0684] [00684] The support 7010 depicted in Figure 9f can optionally include, still in additional modalities, support plates as the modalities depicted in Figures 9a to e. The 7010 support includes several 7022 collars that help to ensure that a medical device attached to the 7010 support is correctly and securely attached to the 7010 support. The 7022 collars can be attached to the 7012 support mast in suitable locations. In some embodiments, the 7022 collars can be separated from each other at equal intervals. The exemplary modality depicted in Figure 9f includes four necklaces 7022.
[0685] [00685] Referring now to Figures 9g ah, collars 7022 may include several alignment features 7024. Figure 9g depicts a front perspective view of an example necklace 7022 and Figure 9f depicts a rear perspective view of it example necklace 7022. The 7024 alignment features can be one of or any combination of protrusions, recesses, steps, cutouts, dies, columns or any other suitable feature in various modalities. The 7024 alignment features can be dimensioned so that any medical device to be attached to the 7010 support can only be attached in a correct orientation. In some embodiments, the 7024 alignment features may not be included in a 7022 collar but instead on the 7012 support mast itself. Such arrangements may not include 7022 necklaces.
[0686] [00686] In the exemplary embodiment in Figures 9f to h, the 7024 alignment features include several protuberances and indentations. Alignment features 7024 are dimensioned so that a clamp device (for example, the clamp device 710 in Figures 8a to f) is prevented from closing the clamp on the support mast 7012 in all orientations, except in the correct orientation. In turn, this means that a medical device that is attached to the forceps device is correctly oriented on the 7010 support.
[0687] [00687] Figure 9i shows a view of the rear of the example support 7010 in Figure 9f. As shown, the base member 7016 includes an opening 7017 to allow a power cable, communications cable, etc. enter base member 7016. Base member 7016 can also include several projections 7019 that can be used to wrap a power cable, communications cable, etc. when not the entire length of the cable is needed or when the cable is not in use. In some embodiments, the 7010 support may include at least one plug or receptacle that can be configured to receive a power cable, a communications cable, etc.
[0688] [00688] As shown in Figure 9i, the 7010 support can include one or more 7038 mounting connectors. The 7038 mounting connectors can be configured to provide one of the two or both electrical power and a network connection to a received medical device. In some embodiments, the 7038 mounting connectors can be configured to allow a received medical device to communicate via a CANbus and / or via USB. In other embodiments, the 7038 mounting connectors may allow communication using other communication schemes, such as, for example, any of those described above in relation to Figures 9a to d. The 7010 holder may include a 7038 mounting connector for each attached medical device. In the exemplary embodiment, the 7010 support includes three 7038 mounting connectors. As shown, the 7038 mounting connectors are included as a part of the support mast 7012 and are located at the rear of the support mast 7012. In other embodiments, the connectors 7038 mounting brackets can be located in another location on the 7010 support. In the modalities that include 7038 mounting connectors, the 7022 collars can ensure that a medical device can be received only by the 7012 support mast in a way that the same hitch operationally a respective 7038 mounting connector. Referring now to Figure 9j, another exemplary embodiment of a support 7200 is shown. Support 7200 can be an IV drip mast as shown. Support 7200 may include a support mast 7212 to which various medical devices can be attached. In some forms of support 7200, support 7200 may include collars and / or alignment features similar to those described with reference to Figures 9f to i. Collars and / or alignment features can help ensure that medical devices are securely and securely attached to the 7200 support. In other embodiments, support 7200 may include one or more support plates, such as any of those described with reference to Figures 9a to e. In some embodiments, the 7200 support may include a combination of collar and support plate alignment features.
[0689] [00689] A suspension feature 7214 can also be included in support 7200. In the exemplary embodiment, a suspension feature 7214 is attached to the top end of the support mast 7212. In alternative embodiments, the suspension feature 7214 can be located at another location on the 7200 support. The 7214 suspender feature can be used to suspend IV bags, IV lines, etc.
[0690] [00690] The bottom of the support mast 7212 of the support 7200 can be coupled to a base member 7216 as it does in Figure 9j. The base member 7216 can include several wheels or castors 7215 that can allow the support 7200 and any attached devices to be easily moved in a care facility. The base member 7216 may be similar to that described in Figure 9d. For example, the base member 7216 may include certain elements of a feeding system as described with reference to Figure 9d. In other embodiments, the base member 7216 may also include certain elements of a communication system.
[0691] [00691] Referring now to Figure 9k, the support mast 7212 may be similar to that depicted in Figures 9f to i. The 7212 support mast can include several 7238 mounting connectors. The 7238 mounting connectors can be configured to provide either or both electrical power and a network connection to a received medical device. In some embodiments, the 7238 mounting connectors can allow a received medical device to communicate via a CANbus and / or via USB. In other embodiments, the mounting connectors 7238 may allow communication using other communication schemes, such as, for example, any of those described above in relation to Figures 9a to d. The 7200 support may include a 7238 mounting connector for each attached medical device. In the exemplary embodiment, the support 7200 may, for example, include up to nine 7238 mounting connectors and may have the capacity to receive nine medical devices. In other embodiments, the number of 7238 mounting connectors and the number of medical devices that can be received may be different. In embodiments that include 7038 mounting connectors, collars and / or alignment features (such as collars 7022 and alignment features 7024 shown in Figure 9i) can be included. Collars and / or alignment features can ensure that a medical device can be received only by the support mast 7212 in a way that it operationally engages a respective 7238 mounting connector.
[0692] [00692] As will be understood by people of ordinary skill in the art, supports 1810, 6010, 7010, 7200 and their components can be produced from a variety of rigid, modified materials. Possible materials include aluminum alloys, stainless steel alloys, modified steel and polymer alloys. In addition, a variety of coatings can be applied to supports 1810, 6010, 7010, 7200 and their components. Many possible coatings can provide a means to reduce the likelihood of cross-contamination. Cross-contamination can pose a serious health risk for young and elderly patients with weakened immune systems. Optionally, an antibacterial coating, an antiviral coating or an antimicrobial coating can be applied to the structural components of supports 1810, 6010, 7010, 7200 to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, fungi and various other microorganisms. Exemplary coatings can include copper, copper particles, silver, silver particles or other materials that have antibacterial, antiviral or antimicrobial properties. SUPPORT SYSTEMS
[0693] [00693] Figure 10a shows an exemplary support system 1900. The exemplary embodiment of a support 1810 depicted in Figure 9a can be an element of a support system 1900 shown in Figure 10a. Another element of the support system 1900 may be a device that includes a mounting mechanism that is configured to attach to the support, such as a clamp mechanism like any of those described above. It should be understood that the exemplary modality depicted in Figure 9a is just a modality of a support that can be used in a support system and alternative modalities of the assembly and support mechanism can depart, perhaps substantially, from the exemplary modalities described in this document. .
[0694] [00694] Figure 10a depicts a modality of a support system 1900 comprising a support 1910 which is substantially the same as the modality of support 1810 described above and depicted in Figures 9a ad, a medical device 1920 that can be received by a 1950 support plate of the 1910 support and a 1940 clamp mechanism that is coupled to a first side of a 1920 medical device and which is adapted to securely couple the 1920 medical device to the 1910 support. Figure 10b depicts the same modality as Figure 10a, however, from a different perspective. Figure 10b includes a view of the 1940 clamp mechanism, described in detail below and a 1960 mounting connector that is arranged on the support plate 1950. Figure 10c is yet another perspective of the embodiment depicted in Figures 10a and 10b and includes a view of a device connector 1970 which is arranged on the medical device 1920. The mounting connector 1960 and the device connector 1970 are preferably arranged on the support plate 1950 and the medical device 1920 respectively so that they are operationally aligned and can come into contact when the 1940 clamp mechanism couples the 1920 medical device to the 1910 support.
[0695] [00695] In a preferred embodiment of the 1900 support system, the 1940 clamp mechanism may be a mechanism such as that depicted in Figures 8a to 8d or described in relevant portions of the above specification. The clamp mechanism 1940 can close on the support mast 1980 depicted in Figures 10a to 10c.
[0696] [00696] As should be evident from the description of the above modalities of a 1940 clamp mechanism, actuating the 1940 clamp mechanism to couple a medical device fixed 1920 to a support mast 1980 may have a first phase and a second phase. With reference to Figures 8a to 8d and Figures 10a to 10C. In the first stage, the user rotation of the handle 702 can move the driven member 710 and the slidingly fixed mobile gripper 704 towards the fixed gripper 703 until the circumference of the support mast 1980 suspends the movement of the mobile gripper 704. In this way, the first stage is completed when the fixed grip 703 and the mobile grip 704 come into contact with the support mast 1980. In the second stage, the continued rotation of the handle 702 can continue to drive the driven member 710 towards the fixed grip 703 and deflect the compression spring 730 (or another deflection member) due to the fact that the driven member 710 can continue to move independently of the mobile gripper 704. Therefore, the second phase allows the user to increase the clamping force and ensure that the 1920 medical device is securely attached to the 1910 support.
[0697] [00697] In some embodiments, the medical device can be a monitoring client (for example, a tablet-type computer) to monitor the operation of other medical devices (for example, via wireless communications, such as WiFi or Bluetooth, for example). The monitoring client can have a serial interface to connect to the 1960 mounting connector (see Figure 10B). In addition, as mentioned above, the monitoring client can attach to a clamp such as any of those described in this document. The clamp can then be used to attach the monitoring client to a 1910 support.
[0698] [00698] Referring now to Figures 10a-10c, the 1900 support system can be best employed in which a patient requires treatment with a coordinated drug regimen, particularly where drugs must be administered via syringe pumps . Due to the fact that syringe pumps can continuously or discreetly deliver precise amounts of fluid over a period of time, syringe pumps are well suited to administer a regimen of different drugs at predefined times. Computerized and networked syringe pumps can allow such a regime to be administered automatically. The modalities of the present disclosure, such as the support system 1900 depicted in Figures 10a to c, may enable a healthcare professional to quickly configure a group of syringe pumps in a network to administer such a drug regimen. In addition, the modalities of the present disclosure, such as the support system 1900 depicted in Figures 10a to c, can help to minimize the number of cords and cables that would otherwise be present when a group of pumps is configured.
[0699] [00699] For example, a health care professional can quickly attach the 1990 clamp set to a 1930 support structure, such as an IV drip mast and connect the 1910 support to an electrical power source. If no syringe pumps or other devices are already attached to the 1910 support, the healthcare professional can continue to attach the necessary syringe pumps to the 1910 support, one at a time. The healthcare professional can attach each syringe pump to the 1910 support by placing a portion of each syringe pump on one of the 1950 support plates so that the 1950 support plate supports at least a portion of the pump weight syringe, allowing the healthcare professional to more easily maneuver the syringe pump into position. Once the support mast 1980 is positioned between the fixed grip 703 (see Figures 8a to 8d) and the mobile grip 702 (see Figures 8a to 8d) and once the 1960 mounting connector and the device connector 1970s are in general alignment, the healthcare professional can rotate the 702 handle through the first phase of the operation. During the first phase of operation, the 1940 device clamp mechanism can automatically adjust to the size of the support mast 1980 and the 1960 mounting connector and the 1970 device connector can be brought into contact with each other. The healthcare professional can attach the syringe pump to the 1910 support by continuing to turn handle 702 through the second phase of operation and the healthcare professional can repeat the procedure for as many syringe pumps as needed. In this way, the healthcare professional can provide each syringe pump with electrical power and a network connection to other syringe pumps via the 1960 mounting connector and the 1970 device connector without having to extend multiple power cables and network that can complicate the procedure of setting up and cluttering the environment around the patient. In addition, any of the syringe pumps can be decoupled from the 1910 holder or another syringe pump can be attached to the 1910 holder, without having to detach or attach any additional cables. When treatment is complete, certain syringe pumps can remain attached to the support and continue to treat the patient while others can be uncoupled, again without having to detach any additional cables, and used to treat a different patient. Alternatively, a healthcare professional can transport the entire 1900 support system and any syringe pumps attached to it by decoupling the 1910 support from the 1930 support structure. A 1910 support that includes an 1820 handle and / or wheels can make the transportation of the 1900 support system and 1920 medical devices easier in this scenario.
[0700] [00700] Figure 10d shows a view of another embodiment of a support system 6100 that includes the embodiment of support 6010 shown in Figure 9e. A medical device, which for example is shown as a 6060 infusion pump, is in place on the 6010 support. A medical device can also, for example, be a monitoring client, PCA, physiological monitor, etc. As shown, the flanges 6062 of the infusion pump 6060 are arranged inside the guide rails 6028, 6034 of the first support plate 6022 and the second support plate 6024, respectively. A 1940 clamp mechanism is included with the infusion pump 6060 and is shown clamped around the support mast 6012. Additionally, as shown in Figure 10d, the 6030 gasket members of the support plates 6022, 6024, 6026 can include functional protrusions 6031. In the exemplary embodiment, the 6031 functional protrusions are hooks or suspenders. Functional lumps 6031 can be used, for example, to suspend multiple cables, lines or IV bags.
[0701] [00701] Figure 10e depicts a 6060 infusion pump with a 6062 flange that is in place inside a 6034 guide rail of the second 6024 support plate. As shown, the 6060 infusion pump includes a 1970 and device connector the second support plate 6024 includes a 6038 mounting connector. The 6038 mounting connector can be included on the side wall of the 6034 guide rail. The device connector 1970 and the 6038 mounting connector are not in contact with each other on the Figure 10e. In addition, the flange 6062 of the infusion pump 6060 is relatively loose within the guide rail 6034. As mentioned above, any or all of the support plates 6022, 6024, 6026 may include 6038 mounting connectors that may or may not be similarly arranged.
[0702] [00702] Referring again to Figure 10d, the device connector 1970 and the mounting connector 6038 are shown in contact with each other. In addition, the 6062 flanges of the 6060 infusion pump are securely retained within the guide rails 6034, 6028 of the support plates 6022, 6024. In order to bring the device connector 1970 and the connector 6038 into contact and firmly retain the flanges 6062 within the guide rails 6034, 6028 it may be necessary, in some specific modalities, to actuate the 1940 clamp mechanism to the clamped position.
[0703] [00703] In Figure 10e, the 1940 clamp mechanism (not shown) is not in the clamped position. When the 1940 clamp mechanism is not in the clamped position, the 6062 flanges of the 6060 infusion pump can be easily moved within the 6034, 6028 guide rails. This can be useful when inserting the 6060 infusion pump and aligning the infusion connector. 1970 device and 6038 mounting connector. The 1940 clamp mechanism can then be actuated as described above in the clamped position. This action can drive the device connector 1970 and the 6038 mounting connector into contact and cause the 6062 flanges to be locked against a side wall of the 6028, 6034 guide rails, thereby retaining the 6060 infusion pump on the 6010 support .
[0704] [00704] The healthcare professional can repeat the procedure for as many 6060 infusion pumps or medical devices as desired. In this way, the healthcare professional can provide each 6060 infusion pump or medical device with electrical power and a network connection for other 6060 infusion pumps or medical devices via the 6038 mounting connector and the 1970 device connector. without having to extend multiple power and network cables that can complicate the procedure of configuring and cluttering the environment around the patient. In addition, any of the 6060 infusion pumps or medical devices can be decoupled from the 6010 support or another 6060 infusion pump or medical device can be attached to the 6010 support, without having to detach or attach any additional cables. When treatment is complete, certain 6060 infusion pumps or medical devices can remain attached to the 6010 support and continue to treat the patient while others can be decoupled, again without having to detach any additional cables and used to treat a different patient. Alternatively, a healthcare professional could transport all 6010 support and any 6060 infusion pump or medical devices attached to it by decoupling the 6010 support from a 6014 support structure (see Figure 9e). A 6010 support that includes a 6020 handle and / or wheels can make it easier to transport the 6010 support and 6060 infusion pumps or medical devices in this scenario.
[0705] [00705] Figure 10f shows yet another modality of a support system 7100 that includes the exemplary support 7010 shown in Figures 9f to i. The 7100 support system can allow multiple medical devices to be attached to the 7010 support. The 7100 support system can also be configured to provide power and / or a network connection to any medical devices attached to the 7010 support. 7100 support may differ, perhaps substantially, from the modality shown in this document.
[0706] [00706] Several medical devices that, for exemplary purposes, are shown as 7060 infusion pumps, are in place on the 7010 support in Figure 10f. A medical device can also, for example, be a monitoring client, a PCA, physiological monitor, etc. As shown, a 7110 forceps apparatus is coupled to each of the 7060 infusion pumps. The 7110 forceps apparatus shown are similar to those in the modalities depicted above in Figures 8a to 8g. In other embodiments, the 7110 forceps can be any suitable forceps described in this document. The 7110 tweezers are shown in the open position in Figure 10f. The infusion pumps 7060 can be safely coupled to the support 7010 through the actuation of the example clamp devices 7110 to the closed position as described above with reference to Figures 8a to 8f. The collars 7022 ensure that, as the clamp devices 7110 are closed, the infusion pumps 7060 are in the proper orientation on the support mast 7012 of the support 7010.
[0707] [00707] Referring now also to Figure 10g, a view of the support mast 7012 of the support system 7100 is shown. Collars 7022 were removed from the support mast 7012 in Figure 10g. As also shown in Figure 9i, the support mast 7012 includes several 7038 mounting connectors. At least part of the 7038 mounting connectors project through openings inside and in the spare tube that forms the support mast 7012 in the exemplary mode. As mentioned above, 7038 mounting connectors can supply power to received medical devices. As also mentioned above, the 7038 mounting connectors can be configured to enable a received medical device to communicate via CANbus and / or via USB.
[0708] [00708] Referring now also to Figure 10h, 7038 mounting connectors can be included in a 7140 mounting connector strip. The 7140 mounting connector strip can help facilitate assembly. When assembled, the 7038 mounting connectors can be snapped onto the 7140 mounting connector strip. The 7140 mounting connector strip can then be attached to the tube, which forms the 7012 support mast. This ensures that the 7038 mounting connectors are easily aligned with the openings in the 7012 support mast tube. The latches can then be used to securely attach the 7038 mounting connectors on the 7140 mounting connector strip to the 7012 support mast.
[0709] [00709] Figure 10i depicts an approximate view of a portion of the support mast 7012 for the support system 7100. As shown, an exemplary mounting connector 7038 is arranged in its mounted location. Holes 7142 are included in the support mast 7012. The latches (not shown) can be inserted into holes 7142 to securely attach the 7038 mounting connectors on the mounting connector strip 7140 to the supporting mast 7012. One end of the connector strip 7140 mounting bracket is also shown projecting from the end of the 7012 support mast.
[0710] [00710] As shown, in some embodiments, the end of the 7140 mounting connector strip may include a 7144 coupling feature. The 7144 coupling feature can be configured to receive a 7144 coupling feature on another 7140 mounting connector strip. This can be useful in setting up alternative modalities of support systems that are designed to receive a large number of pumps. In such embodiments, multiple strips of 7140 mounting connector can, for example, be coupled together and fed into a longer tube of a longer support mast 7012. In the embodiments, a 7144 coupling feature in one strip 7140 mounting connector can be attached to the end cap of a 7012 support mast.
[0711] [00711] Figure 10j depicts a side view of an example 7038 mounting connector that has been snapped into place on an example 7140 mounting connector strip. The example 7038 mounting connector includes a bottom portion 7148, a portion of top 7154, connector pins 7150 and sockets 7152. Two snap-in features 7146 are visible and hold the bottom portion 7148 in place over the mounting connector strip 7140. The top portion can also be held in place over the mounting connector strip 7140 via snap-in features 7146. In the embodiment depicted in Figure 10j, the snap-in features 7146 that hold the top portion 7154 in place are not visible.
[0712] [00712] Connector pins 7150 can be deflected to project from top portion 7154 of mounting connector 7038. In such embodiments, the compression springs (not shown) can provide the deflection force. Also as shown, the two outer 7150 connector pins are the most spare of the top portion 7154 over all other 7150 connector pins. These two 7150 connector pins can be connected to the ground to ensure that a connection to the soil is carried out before other connections. As shown, 7150 connector pins can always be engaged in sockets 7152. This can be done to ensure that a received medical device is always provided with electrical power and / or a network connection via the 7038 mounting connector. In some embodiments , a different number of connector pins 7150 and sockets 7152 can be included.
[0713] [00713] The exemplary mounting connector 7038 also includes a 7151 aisle sensor. The 7151 aisle sensor can be disarmed by a magnet on a received medical device or a clamp on a medical device, for example. When disarmed, the 7151 corridor sensor can create a delay of predetermined duration before power is supplied to the received medical device.
[0714] [00714] In the exemplary embodiment, the bottom portion 7148 of the 7140 mounting connector is a PCB. The PCB can be configured and filled in so that it can allow a received medical device to communicate via CANbus and via USB. In such embodiments and now referring also to Figure 10f, the base member 7016 of the example support 7010 may include a USB port (not shown) to allow connection to a computer. Such a computer can be used, for example, by employees trained to update, access data or records, perform diagnostics on, etc. a fixed medical device.
[0715] [00715] In order to reduce costs, in some modalities, the PCB that constitutes the bottom portion 7148 may not be completely filled. For example, some PCBs may not include components that would enable communication via USB. A care facility, such as a hospital, therefore, may have only a few 7100 support systems that are configured for CANbus and USB. They can be used, for example, as special 7100 diagnostic support systems when needed, while the less expensive 7100 support systems without UBS cable can be used to provide daily patient care.
[0716] [00716] Referring now to Figure 10k, an exemplary embodiment of a 7112 gripper of a 7110 collet apparatus is shown. The gripper 7112 is similar to the fixed gripper assembly 703 shown in Figure 8e. The 7112 gripper includes a 7114 device connector. As shown, the 7114 device connector includes several 7116 connector pins attached to a 7118 PCB. A compatible high-friction gripper material (not shown) can be attached to the gripper face of the gripper 7112. In such embodiments, the grab material can be overmolded onto the 7112 grab. The grab material can include holes through which the 7116 connector pins can interface with a 7038 mounting connector on a 7012 support mast. In some embodiments , the gripping material can be thick so that the connector pins 7116 do not protrude out of the gripping material.
[0717] [00717] As shown, grip 7112 may also include a magnet 7111. In such embodiments, the magnet may or may not be covered by the overmoulded grip material. The 7111 magnet can disable a 7151 aisle sensor on a 7038 mounting connector (see Figure 10j) as grip 7112 approaches the 7038 mounting connector closely. Disabling the 7151 aisle sensor can generate a predetermined duration delay before the power is supplied from the 7038 mounting connector to the 7114 device connector on the 7112 grip.
[0718] [00718] Referring now also to Figure 101, a clamp device 7110 attached to an infusion pump 7060 is pictured as it is attached to the support mast 7012 of a support 7010. Gripper 7112 is in contact with the mast 7012 support connector. The 7114 device connector on the 7112 gripper is in contact with a 7038 mounting connector (see, for example, Figure 10g) on the 7012 support mast. The 7110 collet device can be actuated to the clamped position for attach the 7060 infusion pump to the 7010 holder and keep the 7114 device connector in contact with the 7038 mounting connector. A connection from the 7114 device connector to the 7060 infusion pump (not shown) can be included to provide power and / or a network connection to the 7060 infusion pump. In some embodiments, a connector on the 7060 infusion pump can be arranged so that the 7060 infusion pump can be powered and / or a network connection via another connector on the clamp device 7110 when the clamp device 7110 and the infusion pump 7060 are coupled together.
[0719] [00719] Once a 7060 infusion pump is attached, the healthcare professional can repeat the procedure for as many 7060 infusion pumps or medical devices as desired. In this way, the healthcare professional can provide each 7060 infusion pump or medical device with electrical power and a network connection for other 7060 infusion pumps or medical devices via the 7038 mounting connector and the 7114 device connector. without having to extend multiple power and network cables that can complicate the procedure for configuring and cluttering the environment around the patient. In addition, any of the 7060 infusion pumps or medical devices can be decoupled from the 7010 support or another 7060 infusion pump or medical device can be attached to the 7010 support, without having to detach or attach any additional cables. When treatment is complete, certain 7060 infusion pumps or medical devices can remain attached to the 7010 support and continue to treat the patient while others can be decoupled, again without having to detach any additional cables and used to treat a different patient. Alternatively, a healthcare professional could transport all 7010 support and any 7060 infusion pump or medical devices attached to it by decoupling the 7010 support from a support structure, such as an IV drip. A 7010 support that includes a 7020 handle (best shown in Figure 9f) and / or wheels can make it easier to transport the 7010 support and 7060 infusion pumps or medical devices in this scenario.
[0720] [00720] Figure 10m depicts yet another modality of an exemplary support system 7300 that includes the exemplary support 7200 shown in Figures 9j to k. The 7300 support system can allow multiple medical devices to be attached to the 7200 support. The 7300 support system can also be configured to provide power and / or a network connection to any medical devices attached to the 7200 support. support 7300 may differ from the modality shown in this document.
[0721] [00721] As shown, the exemplary support system 7300 also comprises several medical devices 7360 and several clamps 7310 that couple medical devices 7360 to support 7200. In the exemplary embodiment, medical devices 7360 are portrayed as infusion pumps. Other 7360 medical devices, for example, a monitoring client, PCA, physiological monitor, etc. they can also be coupled to the support 7200. In addition, as shown, the clamps 7310 are similar to the clamp apparatus modalities 710 depicted in relation to Figures 8a to g. In other embodiments, the 7310 clamps may be different. For example, 7310 forceps can be, but are not limited to, other types of forceps described in this document.
[0722] [00722] As shown, only five 7360 medical devices are attached to the 7200 support. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 10m, there is space, above the five attached 7360 medical devices, for additional 7360 medical devices to be attached to the support mast 7212 of the support 7200 if needed. In some embodiments, a user can attach another support (for example, any of the supports 1810, 1910, 6010, 7010 shown and described in relation to Figures 10a to l) to the support system 7300.
[0723] [00723] A clamp 7310 attached to a medical device 7360 can be actuated to a closed and clamped position around the support mast 7212 of the support 7200 in order to couple a medical device 7360 to the support 7200. Referring now, too, In Figure 10n, two medical devices 7360 are shown attached to the support mast 7212. The clamps 7310 that hold the medical devices 7360 in place on the support mast 7212 are shown actuated to the closed position. As mentioned above in relation to Figure 9j, one or more collars and / or alignment features can be included to help ensure that the 7360 medical devices are correctly and securely attached to the support mast 7212.
[0724] [00724] As mentioned in reference to Figure 9k, the example support 7200 of the support system 7300 can include several mounting connectors 7238 that can supply power and / or a network connection to the medical devices fixed 7360. In such modalities of the system of support 7300, the mounting connectors 7238 can, for example, be similar to any of those described above in relation to Figures 10f to 1. In addition, the clamps 7310 of the exemplary support system 7300 may include a device connector that is similar to the device connector 7114 described above with reference to Figures 10k to 1. When a 7360 medical device is attached to a 7212 support mast as shown in Figures 10m an, the 7360 medical device, a corresponding 7238 mounting connector and a respective device connector can be operatively engaged and provide power and / or a network connection to the medical device 7360. In the modalities in which the support system 7300 is configured to allow other supports to be coupled to the support system 7300, the support system 7300 can provide power and / or a network connection to the other supports in a similar way.
[0725] [00725] Once a 7360 medical device is attached to the 7200 support, the healthcare professional can repeat the procedure for as many infusion pumps or 7360 medical devices as desired. In this way, the healthcare professional can supply each 7360 infusion pump or medical device with electrical power and a network connection to the other 7360 infusion pumps or medical devices via the 7238 mounting connector and a device connector without needing extend multiple power and network cables that can complicate the setup procedure and clutter the environment around the patient. In addition, any of the 7360 infusion pumps or medical devices can be detached from the 7200 support or another 7360 infusion pump or medical device can be coupled to the 7200 support, without having to detach or attach any additional cables. When treatment is complete, certain infusion pumps or 7360 medical devices can remain attached to the 7200 support and continue to treat the patient while others can be decoupled, again without having to detach any additional cables, and used to treat a different patient. Alternatively, a health care professional could carry all 7200 support and any infusion pump or 7360 medical devices attached to it. A 7200 support that includes a 7215 handle and / or wheels can make transporting the 7200 support and infusion pumps or 7360 medical devices easier in this scenario. PROTECTIVE MECHANISMS
[0726] [00726] In addition, the 1810, 1910, 6010, 7010, 7200 support medical device mounts can each include a protective mechanism that can protect the mounting connector when not in use and during cleaning. For example, the 2068, 3078 mounting connector can be covered by a pivoting cover mechanism 2000 or a shell-shaped mechanism 3000. Such protective mechanisms can also be used in other systems, for example, in medical systems in addition to the modalities of support described in this document. Figure 11a depicts a modality of a 2000 pivoting cover mechanism. Figure 12a depicts a modality of a 3000 shell-shaped mechanism. , respectively, coupling an electronic device, such as a syringe pump, to the mechanism can automatically reveal the mounting connector 2068, 3078 and allow the mounting connector 2068, 3078 to interface with the connector of the received electronic device. MECHANISM OF PIVOTING COVERAGE & MECHANISM IN SHELL FORMAT: COMPONENTS IN COMMON
[0727] [00727] In the modalities of the present disclosure depicted in Figures 11a and 12a, the pivoting cover mechanism 2000 and the shell-shaped mechanism 3000 can use similar components to receive an electronic device and start the steps to reveal the respective 2068 mounting connector , 3078. However, the two mechanisms 2000, 3000 are just two of several possible modalities to complete the process of revealing the mounting connector 2068, 3078. The two example mechanisms 2000, 3000 can include, respectively, a guide member 2002, 3002, a first rail projection 2056, 3066 and a second rail projection 2062, 3072. The first rail projection 2056, 3066 and the second rail projection 2062, 3072 can be arranged on a guide member face 2003, 3003 and extend parallel to each other along a longitudinal geometric axis of the guide member 2002, 3002 so that the first and second rail projections 2056, 3066, 2062 , 3072 can align the connector of a received device with the 2068, 3078 protective mechanism mounting connector.
[0728] [00728] The pivoting cover mechanism 2000 and the shell-shaped mechanism 3000 can each also include a stop member 2006, 3006 which has a face of a stop member 2007, 3007 to which the 2068 mounting connector, 3078 can be coupled. The stop member face 2007, 3007 can be approximately perpendicular to the guide member face 2003, 3003. The first and second rail projections 2056, 3066, 2062, 3072 can extend to the stop member face 2007, 3007 so that the first and second rail projections 2056, 3066, 2062, 3072 are long enough to support and stabilize an received electronic device. The mounting connector 2068, 3078 can be coupled to the face of the stop member 2007, 3007 so that the mounting connector 2068, 3078 is operationally positioned to interface with the connector of a received electronic device. The protective mechanisms 2000, 3000 can also include a bus 2072, 3082 which is operationally coupled to the respective mounting connector 2068, 3078. In preferred embodiments of the two protective mechanisms 2000, 3000, the mounting connector 2068, 3078 can be attached to the face stop member 2007, 3007 so that the mounting connector 2068, 3078 is positioned between the first and second rail projections 2056, 3066, 2062, 3072.
[0729] [00729] To provide a mechanism to initiate the process of developing the 2068, 3078 mounting connector, the pivoting cover mechanism 2000 and the shell-shaped mechanism 3000 may include, respectively, an actuation member 2008, 3010 that is coupled pivotally to the guide member 2002, 3002 in a first stationary pivot 2010, 3012, where the first stationary pivot 2010, 3012 can be arranged between the face of the stop member 2007, 3007 and a first end of the guide member 2002 , 3002. The actuating member 2008, 3010 may include an inclined portion 2012, 3014 that extends from the first stationary pivot point 2010, 3012 towards mounting connector 2068, 3078. The inclined portion 2012, 3014 may include, also, an angled face 2014, 3016, where the angled face 2014, 3016 can be configured so that it can tilt upwardly and out of the plane of the guide member face 2003, 3003 from the first stationary pivot 2010, 3012 towards the mounting connector 2068, 3078. In this way, the sloped portion 2012, 3014 can project from the plane of the guide member 2002, 3002 when the acting member 2008, 3010 is in a first position and the 2068, 3078 mounting connector is covered. To reveal the mounting connector 2068, 3078, the actuating member 2008, 3010, the inclined portion 2012, 3014 and the inclined face 2014, 3016 can pivot around the first stationary pivot 2010, 3012 and a first direction from the first position to a second position. When the actuation member 2008, 3010 is in the second position and the mounting connector 2068, 3078 is uncovered, the slanted face 2014, 3016 can be substantially located on the plane of the guide member 2002, 3002.
[0730] [00730] In addition, actuation springs 2016, 3018 can provide a mechanism to deflect actuation members 2008, 3010 so that actuation members 2008, 3010 can automatically return to the first position. To accommodate the actuation springs 2016, 3018, the guide members 2002, 3002 may include an actuation spring pocket 2018, 3020. In certain embodiments, the actuation springs 2016, 3018 and the actuation spring pockets 2018, 3020 can be arranged on the guide members 2002, 3002 so that the actuation springs 2016, 3018 can be coupled to and exert a deflecting force on the sloping portion 2012, 3014 of the actuation member 2008, 3010. Figure 11b depicts the actuation spring 2016 of a modality of the pivoting cover mechanism 2000 that acts on the slanted portion 2012 of the actuation member 2008, in which the actuation spring 2016 is arranged in the actuation spring pocket 2018. The shell-shaped mechanism 3000 can be configured in a similar way.
[0731] [00731] The pivoting cover mechanism 2000 and the shell-shaped mechanism 3000 can also include, respectively, a locking member 2042, 3050 that can be configured to close on an electronic device received when the locking member 2042, 3050 is in a closed position. The locking member 2042, 3050 can be arranged within a groove or a guide member recess 2004, 3004 defined by the guide member 2002, 3002. In addition, the guide member recess 2004, 3004 and the locking member 2042, 3050 can be adapted to extend below a portion of the stop member 2006, 3006 so that a first end portion of the closing member 2042, 3050 can be adjacent to the slanted portion 2012, 3014 of the actuation member 2008, 3010 and a second opposite end portion of the closing member 2042, 3050 may be disposed within the guide member recess 2004, 3004 on the opposite side of the stop member 2006, 3006.
[0732] [00732] To allow a user to selectively engage or disengage lock member 2042, 3050, lock member 2042, 3050 can be adapted to pivot around a third stationary pivot 2050, 3060. To lock in an electronic device received, the closure member 2042, 3050 may include a closure projection 2046, 3054 disposed on a first end portion of the closure member 2042, 3050 and adapted to project from the face of the guide member 2003, 3003 when the closing member 2042, 3050 is in the closed position. The locking member 2042, 3050 can also include a locking member groove 2044, 3052 through which the actuating member 2008, 3010 can pass and thus the locking member groove 2044, 3052 can be sized and adapted to allow the actuating member 2008, 3010 to pivot across its entire range of motion without interference from the closing member 2042, 3050.
[0733] [00733] Like the actuating member 2008, 3010, the closing member 2042, 3050 can be adapted so that a deflecting force automatically returns the closing member 2042, 3050 to the closed position. In this way, a locking member spring 2048, 3056 can be arranged inside a locking member spring pocket 2049, 3058 operationally defined by the guide member 2002, 3002 or the stop member 2006, 3006. In one embodiment Preferably, the stop member 2006, 3006 defines the closing member spring pocket 2049, 3058 so that the closing member spring 2048, 3056 can exert a downward force on the closing member 2042, 3050 between the third pivot stationary 2050, 3060 and the second end part of the closing member 2042, 3050. To position the projection of the closing member 2046, 3054 at a desired height above the face of the guide member 2003, 3003, the stop member 2006, 3006 can be operationally dimensioned and arranged on the guide member 2002, 3002 so that the stop member 2006, 3006 can suspend the pivoting movement of the closing member 2042, 3050 in the correct position in relation to the face of the guide member 2003, 3003. An alternating mechanism The target may include at least one projection of a detonator operatively arranged within the guide member recess 2004, 3004 and adapted to do the same. In a preferred embodiment, a first arrestor projection 2052, 3062 (not shown) and a second arrestor projection 2054, 3064 (not shown) can be arranged on opposite sides of the guide member recess 2004, 3004 between the third pivot point stationary 2050, 3060 and the second end portion of the locking member 2042, 3050, where the first and second arrestor projections 2052, 2054, 3062, 3064 can exert a normal moment of force to counteract the moment of force that the closing member spring provides 2048, 3056.
[0734] [00734] As will be understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art, the shell and pivot cover mechanisms 2000, 3000 and their components can be produced from a variety of rigid engineering materials. Possible materials include aluminum alloys, stainless steel alloys, modified steel and polymer alloys. In addition, a variety of coatings can be applied to the 2000, 3000 mechanisms and their components. Many of the possible coatings provide a means to reduce the likelihood of cross-contamination. Cross-contamination can pose serious health risks for young and elderly patients with weakened immune systems. Optionally, one or more of an antibacterial coating, an antiviral coating or an antimicrobial coating can be applied to the structural components of the 2000, 3000 shell and pivoting cover mechanisms to exterminate or inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, fungi and various other microorganisms. Exemplary coatings can include copper, copper particles, silver, silver particles or other materials that have antibacterial, antiviral or antimicrobial properties. A PIVOTING COVERAGE MECHANISM
[0735] [00735] While both the 2000 pivoting cover mechanism and the 3000 shell-shaped mechanism may include the elements mentioned above to receive an electronic device and begin the steps to reveal the 2068, 3078 mounting connector, the 2000 pivoting cover mechanism and the shell-shaped mechanism 3000 employ different additional mechanical connections to complete the task.
[0736] [00736] Figures 11a to 11i depict an exemplary embodiment of the pivoting cover mechanism 2000. Figures 11a and 11c depict a modality of the pivoting cover mechanism 2000 in which the 2068 mounting connector is covered by a 2030 protective member. Figure 11e depicts a cross section of the pivoting cover mechanism 2000 in which the mechanism received an electronic device, the actuating member 2008 is in the second position and the 2068 mounting connector is uncovered. In addition, Figure 11e depicts several portions that may comprise the acting member 2008, including: the sloped portion 2012, a bridge portion 2020, a first channeled projection 2022 and a second channeled projection 2026. Figure 11d shows more clearly the first and second channeled projections 2022, 2026 and the gap between them.
[0737] [00737] The protective member 2030 of the pivoting cover mechanism 2000 can be pivotally coupled to both the stop member 2006 and the guide member 2002 in a second stationary pivot 2032. As shown in Figure 11f, the protective member 2030 is attached to the 2006 stop member in that specific modality. The third stationary pivot 2050 is located in member 2002 immediately above the second stationary pivot 2032. In addition, the protective member 2030 may comprise a cover portion 2038 and a rod portion 2031 that couples the cover portion 2038 to the stop member 2006. The cover portion 2038 can be configured to cover the mounting connector 2068. The protective member 2030 may also include a first and second actuation projections 2034, 2036 (not shown) in which the first and second actuation projections 2034, 2036 are adapted to engage, respectively, the first channel 2024 and the second channel 2028 of the first and second channeled projections 2022, 2026 of the acting member 2008. Therefore, the first and second channeled projections 2022, 2026 can be shaped and dimensioned so that the pivoting moment of the acting member 2008 from the first position to the second position can pivot the protective member 2030 a part go from a protective position, where the cover portion 2038 covers the mounting connector 2068, to a non-protective position, where the protective member 2030 is disposed within a guide member recess 2004. Consequently, the portion of bridge 2020 of the acting member 2008 can be curved between the sloped portion 2012 and the first and second channeled projections 2022, 2026 to allow the protective member 2030 to nest within the acting member 2008 when the protective member 2030 is in the non-position protective. Figures 11e to 11i depict the positions of the actuating member 2008 and the protective member 2030 as they move from their respective positions when the 2068 mounting connector is uncovered and in contact with the connector of an electronic device ( Figure 11e) to their respective positions when the 2068 mounting connector is covered (Figure Hi).
[0738] [00738] In addition, the pivoting cover mechanism 2000 may include a locking member 2042 that has a locking member groove 2044 adapted to operationally receive a portion of the protective member 2030 when the protective member 2030 is in the non-protective position. Figure 11d depicts the protective member 2030 in the non-protective position and shows the groove of the closing member 2044 that receives the cover portion 2038 of the protective member 2030. Figure 11d also depicts the rod portion 2031 of the protective member 2030 disposed between the first and second channeled projections 2022, 2026.
[0739] [00739] To protect the 2068 mounting connector during normal cleaning and maintenance, the pivoting cover mechanism 2000 may include a compatible 2074 gasket configured to, when the protective member 2030 is in the protective position, mechanically seal the 2068 mounting connector inside the recess of the cover portion 2039 defined through a perimeter rib 2040 of the cover portion 2038. In an exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 11k, the compatible gasket 2074 can encompass and be close to the mounting connector 2068. In a preferred embodiment, the actuation spring 2016, which acts through the actuation member 2008, can deflect the protective member 2030 so that the protective member 2030 can automatically return to the protective position. Consequently, the spring force of the actuation spring 2016 can enable the perimeter rib 2040 to contact the compatible gasket 2074 and compact it when the protective member 2030 is in the protective position. In this way, the perimeter rib 2040 can create a mechanical seal with the compatible gasket 2074. Figure 11k depicts an exemplary embodiment of the pivoting cover mechanism 2000 in which the perimeter rib 2040 created a mechanical seal with the compatible gasket 2074.
[0740] [00740] As will be observed by people with a common skill in the technique, the 2074 compatible gasket can be produced from any suitably compatible material; such materials may include, but are not limited to, isobutylethylene, natural rubber, neoprene, styrene butadiene and silicone. In addition, the material of the compatible gasket can be chosen so that the compatible 2074 gasket can resist corrosion from solvents commonly used to clean device surfaces.
[0741] [00741] Figures, 11j and 11k depict a modality of the present disclosure in which the mounting connector 2068 is of a type that has multiple spring contacts 2070. To protect the spring contacts 2070 when the cover portion 2038 covers the connector of assembly 2068, the recess of the cover portion 2039 may include a material liable to compression, including, but not limited to, a polyurethane foam, disposed within the recess of the cover portion 2039 and adapted to receive the spring contacts 2070. A SHELL FORMAT MECHANISM
[0742] [00742] While the protective member 2030 of the pivoting cover mechanism 2000 can pivot towards the guide member 2002 to expose the 2068 mounting connector, the shell-shaped mechanism 3000 includes a cover member 3040 that can slide pivotally through the stop member face 3007 to expose the mounting connector 3078.
[0743] [00743] Figure 12a depicts an exemplary embodiment of the shell-shaped mechanism 3000, in which the cover member 3040 is in a non-protective position and the mounting connector 3078 is exposed. Figure 12b depicts the same modality as the shell-shaped mechanism 3000, in which the cover member 2040 is in the protective position and the mounting connector 3078 is covered.
[0744] [00744] To pivotally slide the cover member 3040 through the stop member face 3007, the cup-shaped mechanism 3000 can include at least one first link member 3028 and at least a second link member 3030 to enable the movement of the actuation member 3010 to pivotally slide the cover member 3040. In the modality of the cup-shaped mechanism 3000 depicted in Figure 12a, the actuation member 3010 includes a sleeve portion 3024 that is coupled to the bridge portion 3022 and which is opposite the inclined portion 3014. Figure 12c depicts an embodiment that has a pair of first connecting members 3028 that are pivotally coupled in respective parts from the first end to the sleeve portion 3024 of the acting member 3010 in a first movable pivot 3026. In addition, the pair of first connecting members 3028 of the embodiment depicted in Figure 12c is pivotally coupled to respective parts of the second ext reference to the respective parts of the first end of a pair of second connecting members 3030 in a second movable pivot 3032. As is to be understood by persons having ordinary skill in the art, the stop member 3006 is adapted and coupled to the guide member 3002 in order to enable the at least one first connecting member 3028 to be coupled to the actuating member 3010 and to pass behind the face of the stop member 3007. Furthermore, the stop member 3006 can be adapted to enable the at least one first and a second connecting member 3028, 3030 moves through their respective movement ranges without interference from the stop member 3006.
[0745] [00745] By means of the movement of at least one second connecting member 3030, cover member 3040 can pivotly slide through the face of stop member 3007 to reveal the mounting connector 3078. In the form of the mechanism in the form of a shell 3000 pictured in Figures 12d at 12h, the respective parts of the first end of the pair of second connecting members 3030 are coupled to the respective parts of the second end of the pair of first connecting members 3028 in the second movable pivot 3032 and the stop member 3006 in a stationary shell-shaped pivot 3034. Figures 12d at 12h also depict the second pair of connecting members 3030, where respective parts of the second end of the second pair of connecting members 3030 are coupled to the cover member 3040 in one third movable pivot 3042. In addition, the stop member 3006 defines a first and a second through slot 3036, 3038, shown in Figures 12i and 12j, through s of which the pair of second connecting members 3030, respectively, pass to engage the cover member 3040. The first and second through slots 3036, 3038 can be shaped and sized, respectively, to allow the pair of second connecting members 3030 to move through their respective ranges of motion without the interference of the stop member 3006.
[0746] [00746] As the shell-shaped mechanism 3000 advances through the stages of discovering the 3078 mounting connector pictured in Figures 12e at 12pm, the movement of the actuation member 3010 in a first direction from a first position to a the second position can cause the cover member 3040 to move from a protective position, where the mounting connector 3078 is covered, to a non-protective position, where the mounting connector 3078 is uncovered. During the discovery process, the pivoting movement of the actuating member 3010 in the first direction can cause the first pair of connecting members 3028 to be pivoted slightly around the first movable pivot 3026 and move in a substantially translational direction in the direction to the guide member 3002. In turn, the substantially translational direction of the pair of first connecting members 3026 can cause the second movable pivot 3032 to pass through a plane that is parallel to the face of the guide member 3003 and which passes through the stationary shell pivot 3034. By doing the same, the second movable pivot 3032 can move from a first position to a second position, where the second movable pivot 3032 is closest to the guide member 3002 in the second position than in the first position. The movement of the second movable pivot 3032 from the first position to the second position can therefore cause the pair of second connecting members 3030 to be pivoted around the stationary shell-shaped pivot 3034 and pivotably slide the member cover 3040 from the protective position to the non-protective position. The reverse process, depicted in the Figures progression from Figure 12h to Figure 12e, can be used to cover the 3078 mounting connector.
[0747] [00747] Like the pivoting cover mechanism 2000, a 3018 actuation spring can be used to deflect the shell-shaped mechanism 3000 so that the actuation member 3010 automatically returns to the first position using the force of the 3018 actuation spring and by acting through at least one first link member 3028 and at least one second link member 3030, actuating member 3010 can therefore cause cover member 3040 to automatically return to the protective position.
[0748] [00748] To house the cover member 3040 when it is in the non-protective position, the stop member can define a recess of the stop member 3008 within which the cover member 3040 can slide pivotally as it slides pivotally across the face of the stop member 3007 and exposes the 3078 mounting connector. Figures 12e at 12pm depict the progression of the cover member 3040 as it uncovers the 3078 mounting connector and slides into the interior of the stop member 3008. As depicted in Figures 12e at 12h, the deepest portion of the stop member 3008 can be an end portion that is furthest from the guide member 3002 and the stop member 3008 can be. be inclined from the deepest portion towards the face of the stop member 3007. The recess of the stop member 3008 can be shaped and dimensioned so that the cover member 3 040 is located below the plane of the stop member face 3007 when the cover member 3040 is in the non-protective position. In addition, the stop member recess 3008 can be shaped and dimensioned so that the cover member 3040 can encircle and cover the mounting connector 3078 when the cover member is in the protective position.
[0749] [00749] The cupped mechanism 3000 may also include a compatible 3084 gasket system designed to protect the 3078 mounting connector, wherein the 3084 compatible gasket system includes a first 3086 gasket portion, a second 3088 gasket portion and a 3090 transitional gasket portion. The second 3088 gasket portion may mirror the first 3086 gasket portion and may be arranged on the opposite side of the 3090 transitional gasket portion. Figures 12i and 12j depict an exemplary embodiment of several mechanisms in cup shape 3000 with 3084 compatible gasket systems. Figure 12i depicts the 3040 cover member in relation to the 3084 compatible gasket system when the 3040 cover member is in the protective position. In contrast, Figure 12j depicts the cover member 3040 in relation to the compatible gasket system 3084 when the cover member 3040 is in the non-protective position. As depicted in Figure 12d, cover member 3040 can include a perimeter rib 3044 that can be shaped and dimensioned so that when cover member 3040 is in the protective position, perimeter rib 3044 can compact the first 3086 gasket portion and a portion of the 3090 transitional gasket portion. Similarly, Figure 12j depicts the mechanical seal created by the perimeter rib 3044 (see Figure 12d) the second 3088 gasket portion and a portion of the 3090 transitional gasket portion. Figure 12i and 12j, the perimeter rib 3044 compresses the respective portions of the transitional gasket portion 3090 so that the first and second through grooves 3036, 3038 are within the mechanical seal created by the perimeter rib 3044 and the compatible gasket system 3084. The first and second through slots 3036, 3038 can be contained with the mechanical seal to protect at least the first and second pairs of connecting members 3028, 3030 against the threat of contamination from foreign matter, particularly when cleaning the 3000 shell-shaped mechanism.
[0750] [00750] Just like the compatible gasket 2074 of the pivoting cover mechanism 2000, the compatible gasket system 3084 of the mechanism in the shape of a shell 3000 can be produced from any suitably compatible material; such materials may include, but are not limited to, isobutylethylene, natural rubber, neoprene, styrene butadiene and silicone. In addition, the compatible gasket material can be chosen so that the compatible 3084 gasket system can resist corrosion from solvents commonly used to clean device surfaces.
[0751] [00751] Additionally and like the pivoting cover mechanism 2000, the 3078 mounting connector of the embodiment depicted in Figures 12a to 12j can be of a type having multiple spring contacts 3080. In addition, the cover member 3040 can include, similarly, a compatible material, such as, but not limited to, a polyurethane foam that can be shaped and sized to receive and protect the spring contacts 3080 when the cover member 3040 is in the protective position. A SYSTEM FOR RECEIVING A DEVICE
[0752] [00752] The previously mentioned pivoting or shell-shaped covering mechanisms 2000, 3000 can be a modality of a protective mechanism 5002 which is a first element of a system for receiving a device 5000. A second element of the system for receiving a device 5000 may be a receptive device 5020 which may include a device connector 5022 and a means to be received through the protective mechanism 5002, such as the pivoting or shell-shaped mechanisms 2000, 3000.
[0753] [00753] Figure 13a depicts an exemplary embodiment of a receptive device 5020, wherein the receptive device includes a device connector 5022 which is arranged on a first face 5024 of the receptive device 5020 so that the device connector 5022 is adapted to interface with a 5004 mechanism connector such as the respective 2068, 3078 mounting connectors of the pivoting cover mechanisms and in the shell format 2000, 3000.
[0754] [00754] To receive the receptive device 5020, the protective mechanism 5002 may include at least one rigid member 5008 disposed on a guide member 5006. The at least one rigid member 5008 may be similar to the respective first and second rail projections 2056, 3066, 2062, 3072 of the pivoting and clamshell cover mechanisms 2000, 3000 as described in this document. Receptive device 5020 can include at least one channel 5028 defined through a second face 5026 of receptive device 5020 and each of the at least one channel 5028 can be adapted to receive a respective at least one rigid member 5008 of protective mechanism 5002. In the modalities of the protective mechanism 5002 which include respective first and second rail projections 2056, 3066, 2062, 3072 such as those of the pivoting cover mechanisms and in the shape of a shell 2000, 3000, the at least one channel 5028 may comprise a first channel 5030 adapted to receive the respective first rail projection 2056, 3066 and a second channel 5032 adapted to receive the respective second rail projection 2062, 3072. Figures 13a and 13b show a modality of the receptive device 5020 that includes the first and second channels previously mentioned 5030, 5032 which are adapted to receive the respective first and second rail projections 2056, 3066, 2062, 3072 of the pivoting and shell-shaped mechanisms 2000, 3000.
[0755] [00755] To hold the receptive device 5020 in place after the protective mechanism 5002 receives the receptive device 5020, the protective mechanism 5002 may include a closure member 5014 that has a projection of the closure member 5016 that engages a defined closure recess 5034 by the second face 5026 of the receptive device 5020. Figures 13a and 13b depict an exemplary embodiment that has a closure recess 5034 and Figure 13c depicts how the projection of the closure member 5016 can engage the closure recess 5034 to secure a receptive device received 5020. Additionally, the protective mechanism 5002 can include any of the features discussed above in relation to the pivoting and shell-shaped mechanisms 2000, 3000; such as features may include, but are not limited to, a locking member spring 2048, 3056 and a locking member groove 2044, 3052, for example.
[0756] [00756] When used in combination, the 5020 receptive device can cause the protective mechanism 5002 to automatically reveal the mechanism connector 5004 as the protective mechanism 5002 receives the 5020 receptive device, thereby allowing the mechanism connector 5004 and the 5022 device connector to interface with each other. For example, the progression from Figures 13d to 13g demonstrates how receiving a receptive device 5020 can cause the shell-shaped mechanism 3000 to automatically reveal a mechanism connector 5004. As each of the at least one rigid member 5010 of a respective protective mechanism slides within at least one corresponding channel 5028 of the receptive device 5020, the receptive device 5020 engages the inclined face 5011 of the actuating member 5010 as it slides towards the face of the stop member 5007 and the mechanism connector 5004 (Figure 13d). As the receptive device 5020 continues to slide towards the face of the stop member 5007, the receptive device 5020 can begin to pivot the actuating member 5010 in a first direction from a first position to a second position (Figures 13e and 13f). As described above in relation to the pivoting and shell-shaped mechanisms 2000, 3000 or other modality of the protective mechanism 5002, this pivoting movement of the actuating member 5010 may cause the covering member 5018 to reveal the mechanism connector 5004. The receptive device 5020 can slide towards the stop member face 5007 until it is in a received position where it contacts the face of the stop member 5007 and the device connector 5022 interfaces with the connector of mechanism 5004 (Figure 13g).
[0757] [00757] The progression from Figure 13g to Figure 13d depicts the reverse process in which detaching the receptive device 5020 from the protective mechanism 5002 can cause the actuating member 5010 to be pivoted from the second position to the first position by the force of an actuating spring 5012 and thus cover the mechanism connector 5004.
[0758] [00758] As should be understood by persons having common skill in the art, the at least one protective mechanism 5002 can be designed so that the cover member 5020 can be pivoted from the protective position to the non-protective position according to the device receptacle 5020 slides towards the face of the stop member 5007 and the mechanism connector 5004. The pivoting and shell-shaped mechanisms 2000, 3000 described above are just two exemplary modalities in which the mechanical connections and the constituent components are formed and sized to be pivoted or otherwise move through their respective movement ranges while the receptive device 5020 causes the actuating member 5010 to be pivoted as the receptive device 5020 is coupled or decoupled to a protective mechanism 5002.
[0759] [00759] When the receptive device 5020 is in the received position, the locking member 5014 of the respective protective mechanism 5002 can be pivoted to a closed position so that the projection of the locking member 5016 engages the locking recess 5034 defined through a second face of the receiving device 5020. In a preferred embodiment of the system for receiving a device 5000, the closing recess 5034 can be arranged on the first face of the receiving device 5020 so that it enters the first channel 5030 and the second channel 5032 As with the inclined face 5011, the projection of the closing member 5016 can be tilted away from the plane of the guide member 5006 and towards the face of the stop member 5007 so that the receptive device 5020 can do with the projection of the closing member 5016 and the closing member 5014 is pivoted out of the way as the receptive device 5020 slides towards the face of the stop member 5007. As described above in relation to the pivoting and shell-shaped covering mechanisms 2000, 3000 a closing spring 5019 can be used to automatically restore the closing member 5014 to the closed position when the receptive device 5020 is in the received position.
[0760] [00760] To decouple the receptive device 5020 from the protective mechanism 5002, pivoting the closing member 5014 in the opposite direction to the closed position can cause the projection of the closing member 5016 to disengage from the closing recess 5034 and allow the device receptacle 5020 slide in the opposite direction in relation to the stop member face 5007 and the mechanism connector 5004. Pivoting of the closing member 5014 in the opposite direction to the closed position can be achieved by manually pulling a release tab of the closing member 5017 which is disposed at an end part opposite the lock member 5014 with respect to the projection of the lock member 5016. When the release tab of the lock member 5017 is on an opposite side of the pivot point of the lock member 5015 with respect to at the projection of the closing member 5016, the pull towards the mechanism connector 5004 causes the projection of the closing member 5016 to disengage from the closing recess 5034.
[0761] [00761] Several alternatives and modifications can be suggested by the elements versed in the technique without departing from the revelation. Consequently, the present disclosure is intended to encompass all said alternatives, modifications and variances. Additionally, although several modalities of the present disclosure have been shown in the drawings and / or discussed in this document, the disclosure is not intended to be limited to them, as it is intended to be as broad in scope as the technique will allow and that the descriptive report works the same way. Therefore, the above description should not be considered as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of specific modalities. And those skilled in the art will foresee further modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims attached to this document. Other elements, steps, methods and techniques that are not substantially different from those described above and / or in the appended claims are also intended to fall within the scope of the disclosure.
[0762] [00762] The modalities shown in the drawings are presented only to demonstrate certain examples of the disclosure. And the drawings described are illustrative only and are not limiting. In the drawings, for illustration purposes, the size of some of the elements may be exaggerated and not drawn on a specific scale. Additionally, the elements shown in the drawings that have the same numbers can be identical elements or they can be similar elements, depending on the context.
[0763] [00763] When the term "comprising" is used in the present description and claims, it does not exclude other elements or steps. When an indefinite or defined article is used when referring to a singular pronoun, for example "a" "an" or "o", this includes a plural of such a pronoun, unless specifically stated otherwise. For this reason, the term "that comprises" should not be interpreted in a way that is restricted to the items listed after the same; this does not exclude other elements or steps and, therefore, the scope of the expression "a device comprising items A and B" should not be limited to devices that consist of only one of the components A and B. This expression means that, in relation to present disclosure, the only relevant components of the device are A and B.
[0764] [00764] Furthermore, the terms "first", "second", "third" and the like, regardless of whether they are used in the description or in the claims, are provided to distinguish between similar elements and not necessarily to describe a sequential or chronological order. It should be understood that the terms then used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances (except when clearly stated to the contrary) and that the disclosure modalities described in this document are capable of operating in sequences and / or dispositions other than those described or illustrated in this document.
[0765] [00765] In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figures 14A to 14E, a 1400 forceps apparatus is depicted. The clamp apparatus 1400 comprises a body 1402. In the embodiment shown, the clamp apparatus 1400 has a first handle 1403 and a second handle 1404. The first handle 1403 and the second handle 1404 can be operatively coupled to the body 1402. The apparatus of clamp also includes a first movable gripper 1405 and a second movable gripper 1406. The first movable gripper 1405 and the second movable gripper 1406 are coupled to the first loop 1403 and the second loop 1404, respectively. In an exemplary embodiment, the body 1402 is positioned in an intermediate way between the handles and the grips. The first handle 1403 and the second handle 1404 are fixedly coupled to the first mobile gripper 1405 and the second mobile gripper 1406, respectively, thus controlling the movement of the first mobile gripper 1405 and the second mobile gripper 1406. The gripper device 1400 also includes a first gear set 1407 and a second gear set 1408 which are operationally coupled to the first handle 1403 and the second handle 1404, respectively, as well as the first mobile gripper 1405 and the second mobile gripper 1406, respectively and are also rotatably coupled to the body. The first gear set 1407 and the second gear set 1408 are configured to operationally engage with each other. In an exemplary embodiment, the first gear assembly 1407 may include a first upper gear 1407a and a first lower gear 1407b which is fixedly coupled to the first upper gear 1407a, so that the first upper gear 1407a and the first lower gear 1407b move. together simultaneously. Similarly, the second gear set 1408 may include a second upper gear 1408a and a second lower gear 1408b which is fixedly coupled to the second upper gear 1408a, so that the second upper gear 1408a and the second lower gear 1408b move in simultaneously. The first upper gear 1407a and the first lower gear 1407b can be configured to operationally engage the second upper gear 1408a and the second lower gear 1408b, respectively.
[0766] [00766] The gripper apparatus 1400 also includes at least one bypass member 1410 operatively engaged with the first handle 1403 and the second handle 1404 so that the handles are configured for operation through a user in order to overcome at least one bypass member 1410. The at least one bypass member 1410 is configured to bypass the first loop 1403 and the second loop 1404 towards a first position. The first movable gripper 1405 and the second movable gripper 1406 are engaged with each other, in order to define a clamped position, when the first loop 1403 and the second loop 1404 are in the first position. The first handle 1403 and the second handle 1404 are configured to move, therefore, by actuation, to a second position, whereby the first mobile gripper 1405 and the second mobile gripper 1406 are disengaged from each other, in order to set an unchanged position.
[0767] [00767] In some embodiments, the clamp apparatus additionally comprises a gripping surface on the first movable gripper 1405 and the second movable gripper 1406, configured to engage a clamped object. In some embodiments, the grippers are configured to clamp a mast. In an exemplary embodiment, the 1400 forceps apparatus is for use with medical devices and medical accessories. In an exemplary embodiment, the clamp apparatus 1400 is configured to couple a medical device 1401 to a support mast. The mast may be an IV drip mast. Medical device 1401 can be a monitor comprising a tablet computer. In an exemplary embodiment, the 1400 gripper device is configured to attach an infusion pump to a support mast. The infusion pump can be a peristaltic infusion pump. In an exemplary embodiment, the 1400 collet device can automatically reproduce the circumference of a variety of different clamped objects.
[0768] [00768] In an exemplary embodiment, at least part of at least one of the first mobile gripper 1405 and the second mobile gripper 1406 can comprise a material that will firmly grip, but without deforming, a clamped object. In some embodiments, at least a portion of at least one of the first movable gripper 1405 and the second movable gripper 1406 may comprise polyurethane. In some embodiments, at least a portion of at least one of the grippers may comprise rubber or may be coated in a rubber grip material. In some embodiments, at least one of the first movable gripper 1405 and the second movable gripper 1406 can be at least partially covered by a removable surface. In some embodiments, at least one of the first movable gripper 1405 and the second movable gripper 1406 can comprise at least one approximately precise, semicircular or contoured face at least on the gripping surface.
[0769] [00769] In an exemplary embodiment, at least part of at least one of the first mobile gripper 1405 and the second mobile gripper 1406 has fingers. In an exemplary embodiment, both the first mobile gripper 1405 and the second mobile gripper 1406 have fingers. As shown in Figure 14A, the fingers of the first movable gripper 1405 and the second movable gripper 1406 are interleaved when the grippers are engaged with each other, so as to correspond with the handles that are in the first position. As shown in Figure 14E, the fingers of each gripper are partially interleaved due to the partial engagement of the grippers with each other, in order to correspond to the fact that the handles are in an intermediate position between the first and second positions.
[0770] [00770] In some embodiments, the at least one bypass member 1410 is a spring. Furthermore, the at least one bypass member 1410 can be a flat spring. The at least one bypass member 1410 can also be a spring bundle. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one branch member can be at least one array of multiple branch members. In addition, the at least one diverter member can be a matrix of multiple flat springs arranged in a layered configuration. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one bypass member 1410 can be produced from a compressible and flexible material. In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 15A to 15D, the at least one bypass member 1410 may comprise a first bypass member and a second bypass member. In one embodiment, the first bypass member can be a first bypass member 1509, including multiple individual bypass members 1509a, and the second bypass member can be a second bypass member array 1510, including multiple individual bypass members. 1510a. In an exemplary embodiment, the first and second diversion members can each include a single diversion member. In addition, the first and second bypass members or individual bypass members 1509a and 1510a can be springs or, in one embodiment, they can be torsion springs.
[0771] [00771] In an exemplary embodiment, the first handle 1503 and the second handle 1504 can be blades. In an exemplary modality, the handles can be in a concave shape in the opposite direction to or in the direction of the body 1502, with the handles being operable. The handles can be configured to be pulled by a user from the first side or driven by the user from the second side, in order to move the grippers from the first position to the second position. In some embodiments, the first handle 1503 and the second handle 1504 may additionally comprise a palm support. The member adapted as a palm support can be U-shaped. In an exemplary embodiment, the first handle 1503 and a second handle 1504 can provide a pair of pull handles configured for operation by a user in order to act the first movable gripper 1505 and the second movable gripper 1506 from the first position to the second position.
[0772] [00772] In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figures 16A to 16E, a clamp device 1600 is depicted. The clamp apparatus 1600 comprises a third gear set 1627 and a fourth gear set 1628, the gear sets operatively coupled to the first loop 1603 and the second loop 1604, respectively, and swivelly coupled to the body 1602. In one embodiment For example, the third gear set 1627 and the fourth gear set 1628 can share a rotary axis with the first gear set 1607 and the second gear set 1608, respectively. The third gear set 1627 and the fourth gear set 1628 can be operatively coupled to the first movable gripper 1605 and the second movable gripper 1606, respectively. The third and fourth gear sets can be configured to operationally engage a locking mechanism in association with the handles. The locking mechanism comprises a first hook 1617, a first fastener 1619, a second hook 1618 and a second fastener 1620. In an exemplary embodiment, the third and fourth gear sets can be operably engaged with each other.
[0773] [00773] In an exemplary embodiment, the handles and the third and fourth gear sets can be configured to allow a slight initial rotation movement of the handles before the subsequent rotation movement of the grippers, when moving the first and second handles of the first position to second position. Similarly, the handles and gears can be configured to allow a slight additional rotation movement of the handles after the grippers stop their rotation movement, by moving the first and second handles from the second position back to the first position. The slight initial rotation movement of the handles can perform an unlocking function, in order to release the grabbers to move, while the slight additional rotation movement of the handles after the grabbers stop moving can perform a locking function, so to prevent grabbers from moving.
[0774] [00774] In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figures 17A to 17E, a 1700 forceps apparatus is depicted. The clamp apparatus 1700 comprises a body 1702, the body 1702 having a first end and a second end. The clamp also includes a lever 1704, where the lever 1704 is operationally coupled to the first end of the body 1702. The clamp apparatus 1700 also includes a movable gripper 1708. The mobile gripper 1708 is coupled to an intermediate portion of the body 1702 between the first end and the second end. The clamp apparatus 1700 includes a first fixed gripper 1706 and a second fixed gripper 1705. The fixed grippers are positioned at a second end of the body 1702. The fixed grippers are configured to be approximately opposite to the mobile gripper 1708, in order to secure a mast from opposite sides. The clamp apparatus 1700 also includes a connector member 1712. The connector member 1712 has a first end operably coupled to lever 1704 and a second end operably coupled to movable gripper 1708.
[0775] [00775] In an exemplary embodiment, the mobile gripper 1708 is capable of pivoting around a coupling point of the intermediate portion of the body 1702. The mobile gripper 1708 has an approximate wedge shape, which has a narrow end and a wide end . The narrow end of the mobile gripper 1708 is coupled to the body 1702 and the mobile gripper 1708 is capable of pivoting around the narrow end. The wide end of the mobile gripper 1708 may have a grooved surface. In addition, the grooved surface can extend along the wide end of the wedge-shaped mobile gripper 1708. The wide end of the mobile gripper 1708 can have a contoured face 1722 opposite at least two fixed grippers. In some embodiments, the contoured face 1722 may be a semicircular or wedge-shaped face. The face 1722 of the wide end of the mobile gripper 1708 can be configured to complement the shape of a mast.
[0776] [00776] In an exemplary embodiment, the grippers additionally comprise gripping surfaces configured to engage a clamped object. Gripping surfaces can be produced from a material that will firmly grip, but without deforming, a clamped object. In an exemplary modality, the grabbers are configured to close on a mast. In an exemplary embodiment, the grippers are made of rubber. In another exemplary embodiment, the grippers are coated with a rubber grip material.
[0777] [00777] In an exemplary embodiment, the body 1702 may comprise a back plate 1720 to which the first fixed grip 1706 and the second fixed grip 1705 are attached.
[0778] [00778] In an exemplary embodiment, the mobile gripper 1708, the first fixed gripper 1706 and the second fixed gripper 1705 can be configured so that the mobile gripper 1708 and the fixed grippers are substantially opposite and can automatically reproduce the circumference of an object pinned.
[0779] [00779] In an exemplary embodiment, the connector member 1712 is configured to rotate the mobile gripper 1708 around the narrow end by actuation of the connector member 1712.
[0780] [00780] In an exemplary embodiment, the connector member 1712 includes a bypass member 1710. In an exemplary embodiment, the bypass member 1710 is a spring and, in some embodiments, the spring is a compression spring. In other embodiments, the bypass member 1710 can be a compactable or expandable spring. In some embodiments, the 1712 connector member includes a piston. The piston can be a spring-inclined piston. The bypass member 1710 is oriented so that the movement of the connector member 1712 towards the movable gripper 1708 stores the mechanical energy in the bypass member 1710.
[0781] [00781] In an exemplary embodiment, connector member 1712 is pivotally connected to lever 1704 at the first end of connector member 1712. Connector member 1712 is coupled to a lever joint 1775, the lever joint being 1775 is positioned and also operationally coupled to one end of lever 1704. Connector member 1712 can also be pivotally connected to movable gripper 1708 at the second end of connector member 1712. Connector member 1712 is configured to, upon actuation of the lever 1704, extends towards the mobile gripper 1708, thus rotating the mobile gripper 1708 towards the fixed grippers.
[0782] [00782] In an exemplary embodiment, the clamp apparatus 1700 additionally comprises a bypass member support 1750 coupled to the connector member 1712. The bypass support member 1750 has a portion with a diameter less than a diameter of the bypass member 1710. The portion of the bypass support member 1750 is positioned to fit within the diameter of the bypass member 1710.
[0783] [00783] In an exemplary embodiment, the clamp apparatus 1700 additionally comprises a bypass member 1751 coupled to connector member 1712. The bypass member 1751 is hollow and has a sealed end. The housing bypass member 1751 has a diameter larger than the diameter of the bypass member 1710. In an exemplary embodiment, the lever 1704 of the clamp apparatus 1700 is a handle. The lever 1704 is configured to, upon actuation, rotate towards the body 1702. The lever 1704 is configured to move the connector member 1712 towards a first position and thus move the mobile gripper 1708 towards the fixed grippers . The lever 1704 is additionally configured to move the connector member 1712 towards a second position and thus move the movable gripper 1708 in the opposite direction to the fixed grippers. In an exemplary embodiment, the lever joint 1775 is a cam, so that when lever 1704 is moved to the first position, the cam pushes the connector member 1712, thus driving the mobile gripper 1708 closer to the fixed grippers. In an exemplary embodiment, the clamp apparatus 1700 is configured to allow the mobile gripper 1708 to stop when it is close to an object while allowing the connector member 1712 to continue to move as lever 1704 is additionally actuated.
[0784] [00784] In an exemplary embodiment, lever 1704 includes a sliding ring 1770 coaxially aligned with the top end of lever 1704 and surrounding it, the top end being closest to lever joint 1775. Slip ring 1770 it is configured to release lever 1704 from a locked position. Slip ring 1770 is configured to slide out of a slit and into lever joint 1775 thereby unlocking lever 1704 and releasing lever 1704 to be rotated. Slip ring 1770 includes a ring deflection member 1776, the ring deflection member 1776 being configured to deflect sliding ring 1770 to a slotted position. In an exemplary embodiment, the ring bypass member 1776 is a compression spring, while in another embodiment, the ring bypass member 1776 is an expansion spring.
[0785] [00785] In an exemplary embodiment, the collet apparatus 1700 additionally comprises a locking set, the locking set being configured to interact with the mobile gripper 1708. The locking set includes a tongue 1714 and the tongue 1714 includes a tongue shift member 1715. In an exemplary embodiment, tongue shift member 1715 is a spring and, in some embodiments, tongue shift member 1715 is a torsion spring. The tongue 1714 is pivotally coupled to the locking assembly, the tongue 1714 being configured to rotate to contact an upper grooved surface of the mobile gripper 1708, in order to lock the gripper in place.
[0786] [00786] In an exemplary embodiment, the locking assembly additionally comprises a slide member 1718 and the tongue 1714 is positioned in contact with the slide member 1718. The slide member 1718 has a first end in contact with the lever joint 1775. The sliding member 1718 comes into contact with an outer surface of the lever joint 1775, the outer surface of which has a compressed portion. The locking assembly is configured to move the sliding member 1718 into the compressed portion of the lever joint 1775, to allow the tongue 1714 to rotate to contact the mobile gripper 1708 and thereby locking the mobile gripper 1708 in place.
[0787] [00787] In an exemplary embodiment, the 1700 forceps apparatus is configured for use with medical devices and medical accessories.
[0788] [00788] In an exemplary embodiment, the body 1702 includes a means for coupling the clamp to a load. In an exemplary embodiment, the charge is a medical device. In some embodiments, the medical device is a peristaltic infusion pump or syringe infusion pump. In an exemplary embodiment, the 1700 clamp apparatus is configured to attach a medical device to a support mast. In one embodiment, the mast may be an IV drip mast. In one embodiment, the medical device is a monitor that comprises a tablet computer.

权利要求:
Claims (24)
[0001]
Tweezer apparatus (1600) characterized by the fact that it comprises: a body (1602); first and second loops (1603, 1604), each, operationally coupled to the body (1602); a first gear set (1607) operably coupled to the first loop (1603) and a second gear set (1608) operably coupled to the second loop (1604), in which the first gear set (1607) is configured for operationally engaging the second gear assembly (1608); first and second movable grippers (1605, 1606), each, operably coupled to the body (1602); a third gear set (1627) operably coupled to the first movable gripper (1605) and a fourth gear set (1628) operably coupled to the second movable gripper (1606), wherein the third gear set (1627) operationally engages the fourth gear set (1628); and at least one bypass member (1610) configured to operatively engage the third gear set (1627) and the fourth gear set (1628), wherein the at least one bypass member (1610) is configured to drive the first movable gripper (1605) and the second movable gripper (1606) towards a clamped position, wherein the first gear set (1607) and the second gear set (1608) form a first locking set comprising: a first hook (1617) coupled to the first gear assembly (1607); a second hook (1618) coupled to the second gear assembly (1608); a first fastener (1619) coupled to the third gear assembly (1627), wherein the first hook (1617) locks in place within the first engagement (1619) when the first movable gripper (1605) and the second movable gripper (1606) are in the clamped position; and a second fastener (1620) coupled to the fourth gear assembly (1628), wherein the second hook (1618) locks in place within the second fastener (1620) when the first movable gripper (1605) and the second movable gripper (1606) are in the clamped position.
[0002]
Collet apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the first gear set (1607) and the second gear set (1608) are pivotally coupled to the body (1602).
[0003]
Collet apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the third gear set (1627) and the fourth gear set (1628) are pivotally coupled to the body (1602).
[0004]
Collet apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the first gear set (1607) and the third gear set (1627) are pivotally coupled to the body (1602) and share a geometric axis of rotation .
[0005]
Collet apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the third gear set (1627) and the fourth gear set (1628) are rotatably coupled to the body (1602) and share a geometric axis of rotation .
[0006]
Tweezer apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the first fastener (1619) and the first hook (1617) and the second fastener (1620) and the second hook (1618) are configured to allow rotational movements of the first handle (1603) and second handle (1604) before subsequent rotational movements of the first handle (1605) and the second handle (1606).
[0007]
Tweezer apparatus according to claim 6, characterized by the fact that the rotational movements of the first handle (1603) and the second handle (1604) are configured to perform an unlocking function, allowing the rotational movements of the first handle (1605) ) and the second gripper (1606).
[0008]
Tweezer apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the first movable gripper (1605) and the second movable gripper (1606) have interdigital fingers when the at least one bypass member (1610) is subjected to deformation maximum allowable.
[0009]
Collet apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one bypass member (1610) is configured to deflect the first movable gripper (1605) and the second movable gripper (1606) towards each other .
[0010]
Tweezer apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the first movable gripper (1605) and the second movable gripper (1606) are configured to close on a pole.
[0011]
Collet device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the at least one bypass member (1610) is a spring.
[0012]
Collet device according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one bypass member (1610) is a smooth spring.
[0013]
Clamp apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the at least one bypass member (1610) is a leaf spring.
[0014]
Tweezer apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the at least one bypass member (1610) is under a preload voltage.
[0015]
Tweezer apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the first handle (1603) and the second handle (1604) are blades.
[0016]
Tweezer apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the first loop (1603) and the second loop (1604) are operable.
[0017]
Tweezer apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the first gripper (1605) and the second gripper (1606) are rubber.
[0018]
Tweezer apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the first handle (1603) and the second handle (1604) are fixed independently and operationally to the body (1602) by means of pins.
[0019]
Forceps apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the first handle and the second handle are articulated independently with the body.
[0020]
Collet apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the geometric axes on which the first loop (1603) and the second loop (1604) are articulated to the body (1602) are parallel.
[0021]
Tweezer apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the first movable gripper (1605) and the second movable gripper (1606) have internal surfaces that are approximately concave.
[0022]
Clamp apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the clamp (1600) is configured to couple a medical device to a support pole (7212).
[0023]
Tweezer apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the tweezer (1600) is configured to couple a medical device (1602) to an IV pole (7212).
[0024]
Forceps apparatus according to claim 23, characterized by the fact that the medical device is a monitor comprising a tablet computer.

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同族专利:

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SG10201607080TA|2016-10-28|

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JP2018105503A|2018-07-05|

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EP2934423A2|2015-10-28|

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AU2013364047B2|2018-05-17|

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MX2015008063A|2015-11-13|

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RU2015129752A|2017-01-26|

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JP2016504112A|2016-02-12|

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AU2013364047A1|2015-07-16|

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BR112015015038A2|2017-07-11|

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CA2896090A1|2014-06-26|

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EP3181112A1|2017-06-21|

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NZ736187A|2019-07-26|

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JP6293785B2|2018-03-14|

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WO2014100744A2|2014-06-26|

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CN104968316A|2015-10-07|

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MX364413B|2019-04-25|

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EP3181112B1|2020-02-19|

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CA2896090C|2021-03-23|

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EP2934423B1|2018-10-24|

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2018-11-21| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according art. 34 industrial property law|

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2019-10-08| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: suspension of the patent application procedure|

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2020-09-08| B06A| Notification to applicant to reply to the report for non-patentability or inadequacy of the application according art. 36 industrial patent law|

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2021-02-09| B09A| Decision: intention to grant|

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2021-03-23| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 20/12/2013, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |

优先权:

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申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题

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US13/723,244|2012-12-21|

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