U.S. patent application number 13/743545 was filed with the patent office on 2013-05-23 for modified fastener and insertion tool.
The applicant listed for this patent is Eduardo Antonio Canizares, JR., Graham Smith. Invention is credited to Eduardo Antonio Canizares, JR., Graham Smith.
Application Number | 20130129447 13/743545 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44588202 |
Filed Date | 2013-05-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130129447 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Canizares, JR.; Eduardo Antonio ;
et al. |
May 23, 2013 |
Modified Fastener and Insertion Tool
Abstract
According to example configurations, a modified screw head
includes one or more slots or grooved channels. A screwdriver
device includes a tip that can be inserted into a cavity in the
head of the screw to torque the modified screw into an object. The
screwdriver device includes a sleeve. The sleeve slides along a
shaft of the screwdriver. The sleeve includes inward protruding
posts (e.g., pins, fingers, etc.). Sliding of the sleeve over the
screw's head requires that inward protruding posts in the sleeve be
aligned with the grooves on the sidewall of the screw's head.
Subsequent to aligning and sliding the sleeve into the grooved
channels of the screw's head, the user twists the sleeve to secure
the screw head to the screwdriver's tip. The sleeve can be
spring-loaded to pull the head of the screw toward a handle end of
the screwdriver after a user releases the sleeve.
Inventors: |
Canizares, JR.; Eduardo
Antonio; (Worcester, MA) ; Smith; Graham;
(Newburyport, MA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Canizares, JR.; Eduardo Antonio
Smith; Graham |
Worcester
Newburyport |
MA
MA |
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
44588202 |
Appl. No.: |
13/743545 |
Filed: |
January 17, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12875244 |
Sep 3, 2010 |
|
|
|
13743545 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
411/407 ;
411/403; 470/9; 81/451 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B25B 15/005 20130101;
F16B 23/003 20130101; A61B 17/8891 20130101; B21K 1/56 20130101;
A61B 17/888 20130101; F16B 23/0061 20130101; A61B 17/862 20130101;
Y10T 29/49826 20150115; A61B 17/8615 20130101; B25B 23/101
20130101; F16B 23/0007 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
411/407 ; 470/9;
81/451; 411/403 |
International
Class: |
F16B 23/00 20060101
F16B023/00; B25B 23/10 20060101 B25B023/10; B21K 1/56 20060101
B21K001/56 |
Claims
1. A fastener comprising: a first axial end; a head, the head
disposed on a second axial end of the fastener; and the head
comprising: a cavity in which to receive torque from a driver bit,
and multiple grooved channels in which to pull the head of the
fastener onto the driver bit.
2. The fastener as in claim 1, wherein each of the multiple grooved
channels is a substantially J-shaped grooved channel.
3. The fastener as in claim 1, wherein the multiple grooved
channels are disposed on an outer sidewall surface of the head.
4. The fastener as in claim 1, wherein a core along an axial length
of the fastener is hollow.
5. The fastener as in claim 1, wherein each of the at least one
grooved channels includes an opened end to receive a corresponding
protrusion from a driving tool that pulls the head of the fastener
onto the driver bit.
6. The fastener as in claim 3, wherein at least a portion of
material from which the head is made is disposed between each of
the grooved channels and the cavity; and wherein the first axial
end includes threads.
7. A fastener comprising: threads, the threads disposed on a first
axial end of the fastener; a head, the head disposed on a second
axial end of the fastener; and the head comprising: a hollowed
cavity, and at least two grooved channels, at least a portion of
material from which the head is made being disposed between each of
the grooved channels and the hollowed cavity, each of the at least
two grooved channels circumferentially spaced apart from each other
on an outer sidewall of the head.
8. The fastener as in claim 7, wherein a core along an axial length
of the fastener is hollow.
9. The fastener as in claim 7, wherein each of the at least two
grooved channels is a substantially J-shaped grooved channel.
10. The fastener as in claim 7, wherein the hollowed cavity is
shaped to receive a corresponding driver bit.
11. The fastener as in claim 8, wherein each of the at least two
grooved channels is a substantially J-shaped grooved channel; and
wherein the cavity is shaped to receive a corresponding driver bit
that applies torque to screw the fastener.
12. A fastener comprising: threads, the threads disposed on a first
axial end of the fastener; a head, the head disposed on a second
axial end of the fastener; and the head comprising: a cavity in
which to receive torque from a driver bit, and multiple posts in
which to apply a force and pull the head of the fastener onto the
driver bit.
13. The fastener as in claim 12, wherein each of the multiple posts
protrudes outward from the head.
14. The fastener as in claim 12, wherein the multiple posts are
disposed on an outer sidewall surface of the head.
15. The fastener as in claim 12, wherein a core along an axial
length of the fastener is hollow.
16. The fastener as in claim 12, wherein each of the multiple posts
protrudes radially outward from an outer sidewall surface of the
head.
17. A method comprising: producing a fastener to include a head
disposed at a first axial end of the fastener and threads disposed
at a second axial end of the fastener; producing the head of the
fastener to include a cavity in which to receive torque from a
driving bit; and producing multiple channels on a surface of the
head, each of the multiple channels having axial and radial
grooves.
18. The method as in claim 17 further comprising: spacing the
multiple channels on an outer, circumferential surface of the
head.
19. The method as in claim 17 further comprising: forming each of
multiple channels on the head to receive a post disposed on a
sliding sleeve of an insertion tool used to lock a head of the
fastener to the driving bit.
20. An insertion tool comprising: a shaft; a handle disposed at a
first axial end of the shaft; a driving bit disposed at a second
axial end of the shaft; and at least one channel to receive at
least one respective post disposed on a head of a fastener to hold
the fastener to the driving bit.
21. The insertion tool as in claim 20, wherein the driving bit is
fixedly attached to the shaft and the shaft is fixedly attached to
the handle.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of earlier filed U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 12/875,244 entitled "MODIFIED FASTENER
AND INSERTION TOOL," (Attorney Docket No. SNI10-05(3803)), filed on
Sep. 3, 2010, the entire teachings of which are incorporated herein
by this reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Conventional screw driving devices provide different ways of
holding a screw in position while the screw is driven into a work
material such as a wall, wood, bone, etc.
[0003] For example, one type of conventional screwdriver includes a
magnetized driving bit to hold a respective metal screw to the bit
during installation. Even if the magnetic driving bit can initially
hold the screw perpendicularly with respect to a work material, the
driving bit may have poor holding power. As a result, the screw can
easily tilt to an undesirable angle when uneven force is applied on
the head of the screw. Moreover, when non-ferrous screws are used,
the magnetized driving bit does not serve any useful purpose as the
operator must manually hold the screw in place.
[0004] Another type of conventional screwdriver includes an
assembly whose mouth widens to accept and hold a screw. For
example, a conventional screwdriver in U.S. Patent Publication
2009/0042164 includes an orthodontic driver tip that is configured
for screwing and unscrewing an orthodontic bone screw. This
conventional driver tip includes an elongated inner rod having an
enlarged diameter front tip portion that widens to accept a screw
head. The tip portion comprises multiple extending resilient arms,
which define an opening recess. The resilient arms are pushed apart
to increase a diameter of the opening and accept a screw head. A
sleeve is mounted on the rod of varying diameter. A locking
mechanism releasably secures the arms against lengthwise movement
along the rod when the locking mechanism is moved forward to a
position wherein the arms are bent into engagement with the head of
a bone screw disposed inside the front tip portion.
[0005] This latter described type of conventional screwdriver also
suffers from a number of drawbacks. For example, during use, a user
may apply an excessive amount of force to a screwdriver to insert
the screw into an object. If the screwdriver does not properly hold
the screw to the tip of the screwdriver during the insertion
because the assembly at the tip secures the screw using only a weak
force, the screw can disengage from the driver bit assembly and
potentially harm the user and/or the object into which the screw is
being driven. Also, it is undesirable in certain applications such
as surgery that the opening of a screw holder assembly at the tip
of a conventional screwdriver must be widened to a larger diameter
to release a screw head from a driving bit.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0006] Embodiments herein include a novel fastener and
corresponding insertion tool to drive the fastener into an
object.
[0007] For example, in accordance with one embodiment herein, a
fastener includes threads and a head. The threads are disposed at a
first axial end of the fastener. The head is disposed at a second
axial end of the fastener opposite the threads. The head of the
fastener includes a cavity in which to receive a driving bit
disposed at an end of an insertion tool. The head of the fastener
also includes one or more grooved channels or cavities in which to
secure the head of the fastener to the driving bit. For example, a
post can occupy each of the grooved channels to secure the head to
the fastener.
[0008] In accordance with more specific embodiments, the one or
more grooved channels in the screw can be cavities disposed on an
outer sidewall surface of the head. Accordingly, a first cavity in
the head of the fastener can be used to apply torque to the
fastener and screw the fastener into an object. The one or more
cavities on the sidewall of the fastener's head can be used to hold
the head of the fastener on to the driving bit.
[0009] Each grooved channel or cavity disposed on the sidewall
surface of the fastener's head can be a substantially J-shaped
grooved channel or T-shaped grooved channel to receive a post of
the insertion tool. One or more posts can be affixed to a sleeve of
the insertion tool to secure the head of the fastener to a driving
bit disposed at the end of the insertion tool.
[0010] A core along an axial length of the fastener can be hollow.
Providing a hollowed center in the fastener is useful for
applications in which the fastener is a bone screw inserted into a
bone.
[0011] In the case of more than one grooved channel on the outer
sidewall of the fastener head, the channels can be
circumferentially spaced apart from each other. Via occupation of a
post or other suitable protrusion into each of the grooved
channels, the insertion tool can apply a force on the head of the
fastener to secure the fastener to a driving tip of the insertion
tool.
[0012] In one embodiment, each of the grooved channels on the head
of the fastener is configured to receive a post disposed on the
inside of a sliding sleeve of the insertion tool. A force can be
applied to the sleeve (and thus corresponding posts affixed to the
sleeve) to hold the head of the fastener to the driving bit of the
insertion tool. Each of the grooved channels can include an opening
and a termination. The opened end of a grooved channel receives a
post or protrusion associated with the insertion tool. The
termination end of a grooved channel prevents the sleeve from
sliding further when the post of the sleeve contacts the
termination in the respective grooved channel. In accordance with
one embodiment, the opening of a grooved channel can receive a post
moved in a direction toward the threads on the fastener; a
termination end of the grooved channel prevents sliding of the post
in a direction away from the threads of the fastener.
[0013] Embodiments herein further include an insertion tool for
inserting a fastener into work material. The insertion tool
includes a shaft, a handle disposed at a first axial end of the
shaft, and a driving bit disposed at a second axial end of the
shaft. The driving bit can be configured to occupy a cavity
disposed in a head of a fastener. The insertion tool can further
include at least one post (e.g., pin, finger, protrusion, etc.) to
occupy at least one respective grooved channels disposed on the
head of the fastener to hold the fastener to the driving bit. The
post of the insertion tool is movable in a radial and/or linear
manner. In one embodiment, the at least one post can be moved or
inserted into the at least one respective grooved channels of the
screw head.
[0014] In certain embodiments, the driving bit is fixedly attached
to the shaft; the shaft is fixedly attached to the handle of the
insertion tool. The posts are fixed to a sleeve that slides along
the shaft of the insertion tool.
[0015] The sleeve of the insertion tool can be spring-loaded to
pull the head of the fastener towards a handle of the insertion
tool opposite threads on the fastener.
[0016] A diameter of the sleeve nearer the first axial end of the
shaft can be greater than a diameter of the sleeve nearer the
second axial end of the shaft. Accordingly, a user operating the
insertion tool can easily apply a force on the sleeve to overcome
the spring and engage the posts into the grooved channels of the
fastener.
[0017] The sleeve of the insertion tool can rotate around the
shaft. Rotating the sleeve can facilitate engaging of the posts in
the sleeve into the grooved channels. In one embodiment, the posts
are affixed to the sleeve as discussed above. Movement (e.g.,
sliding and rotating) of the sleeve causes the posts to move along
an axis parallel to the shaft and rotate about the shaft to secure
the head of the fastener to the driving bit.
[0018] While in a resting position, such as when no force is
applied to the spring-loaded sleeve, the sleeve of the insertion
tool can reside in a resting position in which the driving tip of
the insertion tool is exposed for access. In such a position, the
user can insert the driving tip of the insertion tool into a cavity
in the head of a fastener. Accordingly, the sleeve can be
configured to slide along the shaft of the insertion tool to expose
the driving bit for insertion of the driving bit into a cavity in
the head of the fastener.
[0019] The shaft of the insertion tool can be hollow. As previously
discussed, the fastener also can be hollow. Accordingly, a string
or guide-wire can be pulled through a combination of the shaft and
the fastener to facilitate insertion of the fastener during
surgery.
[0020] Embodiments herein further include a method of creating a
novel fastener as discussed herein. For example, a machine receives
a fastener. The fastener includes a head disposed at a first axial
end of the fastener and threads disposed at a second axial end of
the fastener. The head of the fastener may include a cavity in
which to receive a driving bit of an insertion tool. The machine
then produces at least one grooved channel on a surface of the head
of the fastener. Producing the grooved channel can include removing
a portion of material in the head to produce multiple spaced
grooved channels on an outer, circumferential surface of the head.
In accordance with other embodiments, the screw can be cast in a
mold to include one or more grooved channels.
[0021] Embodiments herein further include use of a screwdriver tool
and novel fastener as discussed herein. For example, a user
receives a fastener. The user inserts a driving bit of a
screwdriver tool into a cavity at an end of the fastener. The user
then initiates insertion of posts of the screwdriver tool into
grooved channels disposed on sidewalls of the fastener to secure
the fastener to the driving bit.
[0022] The insertion tool can include a sleeve that slides along a
shaft of the screwdriver. The posts can be fixedly attached to the
sleeve. Insertion of the posts into the grooved channels can be
achieved by sliding the sleeve along a shaft of the screwdriver
tool towards the fastener to insert or slide the posts in to the
grooved channels. In addition to sliding the sleeve, a user can
rotate the sleeve about the shaft of the screwdriver tool to secure
or lock the posts into the grooved channels of the fastener. In
accordance with such an embodiment, the posts in the sleeve pull on
the head of the screw to secure the fastener to the driving tip of
the insertion tool.
[0023] As previously discussed, the sleeve can be spring-loaded.
Subsequent to sliding and rotating the sleeve, the user can release
the spring-loaded sleeve to enable the spring-loaded sleeve to
automatically pull the head of the fastener towards a handle end of
the screwdriver tool. In other words, the sleeve of the screwdriver
tool can be configured to pull the head of the fastener onto the
driving bit when engaged in the grooved channels of the
fastener.
[0024] For example, in accordance with one embodiment herein, a
fastener includes threads and a head. The threads are disposed at a
first axial end of the fastener. The head is disposed at a second
axial end of the fastener opposite the threads. The head of the
fastener includes a cavity in which to receive a driving bit
disposed at an end of an insertion tool. The head of the fastener
also includes one or more posts in which to secure the head of the
fastener to the driving bit. For example, a post of the fastener
can occupy each of the channels of the insertion tool to secure the
head to the fastener.
[0025] The one or more posts on the sidewall of the fastener's head
can be used to hold the head of the fastener on to the driving
bit.
[0026] Each post disposed on the sidewall surface of the fastener's
head can be received by a substantially J-shaped or substantially
T-shaped channel of the insertion tool.
[0027] A core along an axial length of the fastener can be hollow.
Providing a hollowed center in the fastener having multiple posts
is useful for applications in which the fastener is a bone screw
inserted into a bone.
[0028] In the case of more than one post on the outer sidewall of
the fastener head, the posts can be circumferentially spaced apart
from each other. Via occupation of a post or other suitable
protrusion in the fastener into each of the grooved channels of the
insertion tool, the insertion tool can apply a force on the head of
the fastener to secure the fastener to a driving tip of the
insertion tool.
[0029] In one embodiment, each of the posts on the head of the
fastener is configured to be received by a channel disposed on a
sliding sleeve of the insertion tool. A force can be applied to the
sleeve (and thus corresponding channels of the sleeve) to hold the
head of the fastener to the driving bit of the insertion tool.
[0030] Each of the channels on the sleeve of the insertion tool can
include an opening and a termination. The opened end of a grooved
channel receives a post or protrusion associated with the fastener.
The termination of the channel in the sleeve locks the head of the
fastener to the driving bit of the insertion tool.
[0031] Embodiments herein further include an insertion tool for
inserting a fastener having multiple posts into work material. The
insertion tool includes a shaft, a handle disposed at a first axial
end of the shaft, and a driving bit disposed at a second axial end
of the shaft. The driving bit can be configured to occupy a cavity
disposed in a head of a fastener. The insertion tool can further
include at least one channel for receiving at least one respective
post disposed on the head of the fastener to hold the fastener to
the driving bit. The channel of the insertion tool is movable in a
radial and/or linear manner. In one embodiment, the at least
channel can be moved to receive respective at least one post on the
head of the fastener.
[0032] In certain embodiments, the driving bit is fixedly attached
to the shaft; the shaft is fixedly attached to the handle of the
insertion tool. The channels are produced in a sleeve that slides
along the shaft of the insertion tool.
[0033] The sleeve of the insertion tool can be spring-loaded to
pull the head of the fastener towards a handle of the insertion
tool opposite threads on the fastener.
[0034] The sleeve of the insertion tool can rotate around the
shaft. Rotating the sleeve can facilitate engaging of the channels
in the sleeve to the posts in the fastener. In one embodiment, the
channels are disposed in the sleeve as discussed above. Movement
(e.g., sliding and rotating) of the sleeve with respect to an axis
parallel to the shaft enables engagement of the posts of the
fastener into the channels of the sleeve to secure the head of the
fastener to the driving bit.
[0035] While in a resting position, such as when no force is
applied to the spring-loaded sleeve, the sleeve of the insertion
tool can reside in a resting position in which the driving tip of
the insertion tool is exposed for access. In such a position, the
user can insert the driving tip of the insertion tool into a cavity
in the head of a fastener. Accordingly, the sleeve can be
configured to slide along the shaft of the insertion tool to expose
the driving bit for insertion of the driving bit into a cavity in
the head of the fastener.
[0036] The shaft of the insertion tool can be hollow. As previously
discussed, the fastener having multiple posts also can be hollow.
Accordingly, a string or guide-wire can be pulled through a
combination of the shaft and the fastener to facilitate insertion
of the fastener during surgery.
[0037] Embodiments herein further include a method of creating a
novel fastener as discussed herein. For example, a machine receives
a fastener. The fastener includes a head disposed at a first axial
end of the fastener and threads disposed at a second axial end of
the fastener. The head of the fastener may include a cavity in
which to receive a driving bit of an insertion tool. The machine
then produces at least one post on a surface of the head of the
fastener. Producing the posts can include removing a portion of
material in the head to and inserting a respective pin. In
accordance with other embodiments, the screw can be cast in a mold
to include one or more posts extending axially outward from the
head.
[0038] Embodiments herein further include use of a screwdriver tool
and novel fastener as discussed herein. For example, a user
receives a fastener. The user inserts a driving bit of a
screwdriver tool into a cavity at an end of the fastener. The user
then initiates engagement of posts in the fastener into channels
disposed on a sleeve of the insertion tool to secure the fastener
to the driving bit.
[0039] As previously discussed, the insertion tool can include a
sleeve that slides along a shaft of the screwdriver. The channels
can be formed in the sleeve to receive the posts of the fastener.
Receipt of the posts of the fastener into the channels of the
sleeve can be achieved by sliding the sleeve along the shaft of the
screwdriver tool towards the fastener to engage the posts into the
channels. In addition to sliding the sleeve, a user can rotate the
sleeve about the shaft of the screwdriver tool to secure or lock
the posts of the fastener into the channels of the sleeve. In
accordance with such an embodiment, the channels in the sleeve pull
on the head of the screw to secure the fastener to the driving tip
of the insertion tool.
[0040] As previously discussed, the sleeve can be spring-loaded.
Subsequent to sliding and rotating the sleeve, the user can release
the spring-loaded sleeve to enable the spring-loaded sleeve to
automatically pull the head of the fastener towards a handle end of
the screwdriver tool. In other words, the sleeve of the screwdriver
tool can be configured to pull the head of the fastener onto the
driving bit when the posts of the fats are engaged in the channels
in the sleeve of the insertion tool.
[0041] These and other example embodiments are discussed in more
detail below.
[0042] As discussed above, techniques herein are well suited for
use in securing a fastener to a tip of a driving device. However,
it should be noted that embodiments herein are not limited to use
in such applications and that the techniques discussed herein are
well suited for other applications as well.
[0043] Note that although each of the different features,
techniques, configurations, etc., herein may be discussed in
different places of this disclosure, it is intended that each of
the concepts can be utilized independently of each other or, where
suitable, in combination with each other. Accordingly, the one or
more present inventions as described herein can be embodied and
viewed in many different ways.
[0044] Also, note that this preliminary discussion of embodiments
herein does not specify every embodiment and/or incrementally novel
aspect of the present disclosure or claimed invention(s). Instead,
this brief description only presents general embodiments and
corresponding points of novelty over conventional techniques. For
additional details and/or possible perspectives (permutations) of
the invention(s), and additional points of novelty, the reader is
directed to the Detailed Description section and corresponding
figures of the present disclosure as further discussed below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0045] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of
the invention will be apparent from the following more particular
description of preferred embodiments herein, as illustrated in the
accompanying drawings in which like reference characters refer to
the same parts throughout the different views. The drawings are not
necessarily to scale, with emphasis instead being placed upon
illustrating the embodiments, principles, concepts, etc.
[0046] FIG. 1 is an example perspective view of a fastener
according to embodiments herein.
[0047] FIG. 2A is an example side view of a fastener according to
embodiments herein.
[0048] FIG. 2B is an example side view of a fastener according to
embodiments herein.
[0049] FIG. 3 is an example perspective view of the head of a
fastener according to embodiments herein.
[0050] FIG. 4 is an example side view of a head of a fastener
according to embodiments herein.
[0051] FIG. 5 is an example diagram illustrating a top view of a
head of a fastener according to embodiments herein
[0052] FIG. 6 is an example diagram illustrating an insertion tool
and corresponding fastener according to embodiments herein.
[0053] FIG. 7 is an example perspective view diagram of an
insertion tool and corresponding fastener according to embodiments
herein.
[0054] FIG. 8 is an example diagram illustrating a front view of an
insertion tool and corresponding fastener according to embodiments
herein.
[0055] FIG. 9 is an example diagram illustrating an insertion tool
when no force is applied to a respective sleeve according to
embodiments herein.
[0056] FIG. 10 is an example diagram illustrating insertion of a
driving bit into a cavity of a fastener according to embodiments
herein.
[0057] FIG. 11 is an example diagram illustrating engagement of
posts into grooved channels of a fastener according to embodiments
herein.
[0058] FIG. 12 is an example perspective view illustrating a
fastener including posts according to embodiments herein.
[0059] FIG. 13 is an example top view illustrating a fastener
including posts according to embodiments herein.
[0060] FIG. 14 is an example diagram illustrating engagement of
posts into respective grooved channels of an insertion tool
according to embodiments herein.
[0061] FIG. 15 is an example diagram illustrating a T-shaped
grooved channel in a sleeve of an insertion tool according to
embodiments herein.
[0062] FIG. 16 is an example diagram illustrating engagement of
posts on a fastener into respective grooved channels of a sleeve of
an insertion tool according to embodiments herein.
[0063] FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example method of
manufacturing a fastener according to embodiments herein.
[0064] FIGS. 18 and 19 combine to form a flowchart illustrating
example steps of a user utilizing a first version of the insertion
tool and corresponding fastener according to embodiments
herein.
[0065] FIGS. 20 and 21 combine to form a flowchart illustrating
example steps of a user utilizing a second version of the insertion
tool and corresponding fastener according to embodiments
herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0066] In accordance with one embodiment, a modified screw includes
one or more, grooved channels on an outer surface or sidewall of
the screw's head. A screwdriver device includes a tip that can be
inserted into a cavity at the head of the screw to torque the
modified screw. In one embodiment, the screwdriver includes a
movable assembly such as a sleeve. The sleeve includes posts (e.g.,
protrusions, pins, fingers, etc.) protruding inward. Sliding of the
sleeve along a shaft of the screwdriver device over the screw head
requires that inward protruding posts in the sleeve be rotated and
aligned with the grooves on the sidewall of the screw's head.
Subsequent to aligning and sliding the sleeve along the shaft to
engage the posts in the grooved channels, the user twists the
sleeve to lock the posts in the grooved channels and secure the
fastener's head to the tip of the screwdriver. To hold a fastener
to the insertion tool, the sleeve can be spring-loaded to
automatically pull the head of the screw toward a handle end of the
screwdriver after a user releases the sleeve.
[0067] More specifically, FIG. 1 is an example perspective view of
a fastener according to embodiments herein.
[0068] In accordance with one embodiment herein, fastener 120
includes threads 135 and a head 150. The threads 135 are disposed
at a first axial end 199-1 of axis 198 of the fastener 120. The
head 150 is disposed at a second axial end 199-2 of axis 198 of the
fastener 120. The head 150 of the fastener 120 includes a cavity
160 in which to receive a driving bit disposed at an end of an
insertion tool such as a screwdriver. The head of the fastener 120
also includes grooved channel 210-1.
[0069] By way of a non-limiting example, the cavity 160 in fastener
120 is configured to receive a torx bit disposed at the end of an
insertion tool. However, note that the cavity 160 of head 150 can
be bored to receive any suitable type of driving bit (e.g., a
phillips head bit, flat head bit, hex bit, socket, etc.).
[0070] Also, note that the image of fastener 120 including threads
135 is shown by way of non-limiting example only. The fastener 120
according to further embodiments herein can be configured to have
different types of holding features, other than merely threads 135,
such as barbs, hooks, or other suitable shaped features on axial
end 199-1 of the fastener 120 that would allow for increased
fixation of the fastener 120 to tissue. In the instance where the
fastener 120 includes barbs, hooks, etc., a respective insertion
tool as discussed below can be used to axially drive the fastener
120 into an object as opposed to rotationally driving threads 135
of the fastener 120 into work material such as a tissue.
[0071] FIG. 2A is an example side view of a fastener according to
embodiments herein. As shown, the head of the fastener 120 includes
grooved channel 210-1 as discussed above. As will be discussed
later in this specification, the grooved channel 210-1 facilitates
securing the head 150 of the fastener 120 to a corresponding
driving bit of an insertion tool.
[0072] In accordance with more specific embodiments as shown, the
grooved channel 210-1 can be disposed on an outer sidewall surface
of the head 150 of fastener 120. A machine can be used to remove
material from the head 150 of fastener to create the grooved
channel 210-1 (i.e., cavity). The fastener also can be manufactured
via a mold or a combination of a mold and execution of machine to
remove material from the head 150. Other suitable methods of
manufacturing the fastener 120 may also be used. FIG. 2B is an
example side view of a fastener according to embodiments herein. As
shown, the example head 295 of the fastener 121 includes T-shaped
grooved channels 289 (e.g., grooved channel 289-1, grooved channel
289-2, . . . ). The grooved channels 289 in fastener 121 facilitate
securing the head 295 of the fastener 120 to a corresponding
driving bit of an insertion tool.
[0073] In accordance with more specific embodiments as shown, the
grooved channel 289-1 can be disposed on an outer sidewall surface
of the head 295 of fastener 121. A machine can be used to remove
material from the head 295 of fastener 121 to create the grooved
channels 289. Note that the fastener 121 also can be manufactured
via a mold or a combination of a mold and execution of machine to
remove material from the head 295. Other suitable methods of
manufacturing the fastener 121 may also be used.
[0074] Use of fastener 121 is similar to use of fastener 120 except
that fastener 121 enables a user to rotate a respective sleeve of
an insertion tool either clockwise or counter-clockwise to engage
posts on the sleeve into the grooved channels 289.
[0075] FIG. 3 is an example perspective view of a fastener
according to embodiments herein.
[0076] As shown, fastener 120 in FIG. 3 includes multiple grooved
channels 210 (e.g., grooved channel 210-1, grooved channel 210-2,
and grooved channel 210-3). Although head 150 includes three
grooved channels 210 as shown in FIG. 3, head 150 can be configured
to include any suitable number of grooved channels 210 disposed
thereon.
[0077] Each of multiple grooved channels 210 on the sidewall
surface of the head 150 can be a substantially J-shaped grooved
channel to receive a post of a corresponding insertion tool as will
be further described below. Note that the radial groove in fastener
120 may be located such that a respective sleeve 250 (as will be
discussed in FIG. 6) may be rotated clock-wise or counter
clock-wise to insert the post into the one or more grooved channels
210 and respective termination ends, as will be further discussed
with regards to FIG. 6.
[0078] FIG. 4 is an example side view diagram of a head 150 of
fastener 120 according to embodiments herein.
[0079] Each of the grooved channels 210 such as grooved channel
210-1 can include an opening end 405 and a termination end 408.
Additionally, each of the grooved channels can include a first
axial portion 410-1, a second axial portion 410-2, and a radial
portion 411. The purposes of the opening end 405, the termination
end 408, first axial portion 410-1, second axial portion 410-2, and
radial portion 410-3 will be further described below.
[0080] FIG. 5 is an example diagram illustrating a top view of a
head of a fastener according to embodiments herein.
[0081] As shown, a core 520 along an axial length of axis 198 of
the fastener 120 can be hollowed for receiving a guide wire and/or
allowing passage of matter. Such an embodiment is useful for
applications in which the fastener 120 is a bone screw inserted
into a bone. A large force is typically required to insert a screw
into a bone. The guide wire can be inserted in the core 520 of
fastener 120 to facilitate guidance of and insertion of the
fastener 120 into a bone or other hard material.
[0082] As shown in this top view diagram of fastener 120 in FIG. 5,
the grooved channels 210 on the fastener 120 can be
circumferentially spaced apart from each other (e.g., 120 degrees
apart for 3 grooved channels 210, 90 degrees apart for 4 grooved
channels 210, etc.) on an outer surface or sidewall of the head 150
of the fastener 120.
[0083] As will be discussed further below, via occupation of a
suitable protrusion into each of the grooved channels 210, a
respective insertion tool (as discussed in the following figures)
can apply a force on the head 150 of the fastener 120 to secure the
fastener 120 to a driving tip of the insertion tool.
[0084] FIG. 6 is an example diagram illustrating an insertion tool
and corresponding fastener according to embodiments herein.
[0085] As shown, the insertion tool 600 includes a shaft 605, a
handle 690 disposed at a first axial end 699-1 of axis 698 of the
shaft 605, and a driving bit 660 disposed or fixedly attached at a
second axial end 699-2 of axis 698 of the shaft 605. Accordingly, a
user can control the driving bit 660 and respective shaft 605 via a
force applied to the handle 690. The driving bit 660 of insertion
tool 600 can be configured to occupy cavity 160 disposed in head
150 of fastener 120.
[0086] As shown, the insertion tool 600 can further include at
least one post 275-1 (e.g., pin, finger, protrusion, etc.) to
occupy at least one respective grooved channel 210-1 disposed on
the head 150 of the fastener 120 to hold the fastener 120 onto the
driving bit 660. The post 275-1 is movable via movement of the
sleeve 250 along shaft 605. In one embodiment, the posts 275 are
affixed to the sleeve 250.
[0087] Each of the posts 275 in sleeve 250 can be moved or inserted
into a respective grooved channel 210 of the head 150 via sliding
of the sleeve 250 along and/or rotating the sleeve 250 about the
shaft 605. For example, the sleeve 250 can include multiple inward
protruding posts 275 (e.g., post 275-1, post 275-2, post 275-3, . .
. ) matching the pattern of respective grooved channels 210 on the
head 150 of fastener 120. The posts 275 can be angularly spaced on
the inside of the sleeve 250 to match a corresponding angular
spacing of the grooved channels 210 with respect to each other.
Accordingly, the posts 275 fixed to the inner surface of the sleeve
250 can fit into a keyway produced by the grooved channels 275 on
the head 150 of the fastener 120.
[0088] The sleeve 250 of the insertion tool 600 can be
spring-loaded (via spring 680) to pull the head 150 of the fastener
120 in a direction towards the handle 690 of the insertion tool
600. Note that the use of spring 680 is shown by way of
non-limiting example only and that any type of suitable substitute
such as a rubber block, etc., can be used in its place to exert a
force of the sleeve 250.
[0089] More specifically, in one embodiment, the insertion tool 600
includes a stop 682 such as washer fixedly attached to the shaft
605 via a press fit, weld fit, pin fit, etc. A first end 681-1 of
the spring 680 is in contact with the stop 682, which serves as
first surface for compressing the spring 680. The spring 680
loosely fits around the shaft 605 so that the spring 680 compresses
and decompresses based on movement of the sleeve 250 along the
shaft 605. Sleeve 250 includes an inner, hollowed cavity in which
the spring 680 and stop 682 reside. An inner diameter of the cavity
in the sleeve 250 is reduced at sleeve end 692 nearer handle 690
such that the second end 681-2 of the spring 680 contacts the
sleeve 250. Sleeve 250 slides along and rotates about shaft 605.
Accordingly, when the user slides the sleeve along shaft 605 away
from the handle 690, the spring 680 compresses further. At such
time, the spring 680 applies a force on the sleeve end 692 (and
thus sleeve 250) towards handle 690. Subsequent to engaging the
posts 275 into respective grooved channel 210 of fastener 120, the
user releases the sleeve 250. When released, the spring 680 applies
a force on the sleeve and posts 275 towards the handle 698, holding
the fastener 120 onto the driving bit 660.
[0090] As shown, an outer diameter of the sleeve 250 nearer the
driving bit 660 of the shaft 605 can be smaller than an outer
diameter of the sleeve 250 nearer the handle 690 end of the shaft
605. Accordingly, a user operating the insertion tool 600 can grasp
the handle 690 with a first hand and easily grasp the sleeve 250
with the same or different hand to apply a force on the sleeve 250
to overcome an exertion force of the spring 680 by pushing the
sleeve 250 away from the handle 690. In general, applying a force
on the sleeve 250 away from handle 690 and aligning the posts 275
into the grooved channels 210 engages the posts 275 into the
opening end 405 of the grooved channels 275 of the fastener
120.
[0091] As previously discussed, each of the grooved channels 210
such as grooved channel 210-1 on fastener 120 can include an
opening end 405 and a termination end 408. The opening end 405 of
the grooved channel 210-1 is configured to receive a respective
post 275-1 on sleeve 250 of the insertion tool 600. For example, in
accordance with one embodiment, the opening end 405 of grooved
channel 210-1 can receive a post 275-1 moved in a direction toward
the threads 135 on the fastener 120 as a result of sliding the
sleeve 250 away from the handle 690 of the insertion tool 600. When
the posts 275 of the sleeve 250 have been inserted far enough into
the grooved channels 210 via movement of the sleeve along axis 698
away from the handle 690, the user rotates the sleeve 250 along
radial portion 411 from first axial portion 410-1 to second axial
portion 410-2 and subsequently releases the sleeve 250 to allow the
post to slide along the second axial portion 410-2 toward the
handle and lock the head 150 of the fastener 120 to the end of the
sleeve 250. As previously discussed, releasing the sleeve 250
causes the sleeve 250 and respective posts 275 pull the head 150 of
the fastener 120 onto the driving bit 660.
[0092] When in a locked position, the termination end 408 of
grooved channel 210-1 prevents the posts 275 from sliding further
in the head 150 when a force (such as a force produced by the
spring 680) is applied to the sleeve 250 in a direction opposite
the threads of the fastener 120. That is, the termination ends 408
of the grooved channels 210 prevent sliding of the posts 275 (and
sleeve 250) in a direction away from the threads 135 of the
fastener 120 when respective posts 275 of sleeve 250 come in
contact with the termination ends 408 of grooved channels 275. In
this manner, as discussed above, the posts 275 in sleeve 250 pull
the head 150 of the fastener 120 onto the driving bit 660.
[0093] In one embodiment, the termination end 408 of a respective
grooved channel 210-1 in the fastener 120 prevents a radial
movement of the sleeve 250 and/or post 275-1 about axis 198 of the
fastener 120. In other words, when the post 275-1 is moved into and
resides in the termination end 408 of the grooved channel 210-1,
the post 275-1 in the termination end 408 can only be moved in an
axial direction to the threads 135 of the fastener 120. Thus, the
fastener 120 will not accidentally disengage from the head 150. To
release the head 150 of the fastener 120 from the driving bit 660,
the user applies a force to the sleeve 250 away from the handle
690, rotates the sleeve 250 along the radial portion 411, and
releases the sleeve 250. A force of the spring 680 causes the
sleeve 250 to slide to a rest position in the first axial portion
410-1, as shown in FIG. 9. The user then pulls the driving bit 660
out of the cavity 160 of fastener 120.
[0094] FIG. 7 is an example diagram illustrating a perspective view
of the insertion tool and corresponding fastener according to
embodiments herein.
[0095] As shown, in addition to sliding, the sleeve 250 of the
insertion tool 600 can rotate around the shaft 605. As previously
discussed, sliding and rotating the sleeve 250 facilitates engaging
of the posts 275 into opening end 405 and locking into the
respective termination ends 408 of the grooved channels 210. As
will be further described below, sliding the sleeve 250 along an
axis 698 parallel to the shaft 605 causes the posts 275 to slide
through the respective opening ends 405 of grooved channels 210.
The sleeve 250 can be slid along and rotated about the shaft 605 to
facilitate movement of the posts 275 into the termination end 408
of the shaft and secure or lock the head 150 of the fastener 120 to
the driving bit 660.
[0096] FIG. 8 is an example diagram illustrating a front view of
the fastener and the insertion tool 600 according to embodiments
herein.
[0097] As shown, the shaft of the insertion tool 600 can be hollow.
As previously discussed, the fastener 120 coupled to the driving
bit 660 also can be hollow. Accordingly, the previously discussed
guide-wire can be pulled through a combination of the shaft 660 of
the insertion tool 600 and the fastener 120 to facilitate guidance
and insertion of the fastener 120 into an object such as a bone
during surgery.
[0098] FIG. 9 is an example diagram illustrating further aspects of
an insertion tool according to embodiments herein.
[0099] As shown, when no force is applied to the spring-loaded
sleeve 250, the sleeve 250 of the insertion tool 600 can reside in
a resting position in which the driving tip 660 of the insertion
tool 600 is exposed for access. In one embodiment, the spring 680
pushes sleeve 250 towards handle 690 so that the driving bit 660 is
exposed as shown in FIG. 9. In such a position, the user can insert
the driving tip 660 of the insertion tool into a cavity 160 of the
fastener 120 as shown in FIG. 10. Accordingly, an assembly, to
which the posts 275 are affixed, such as a sleeve 250, can be
configured to slide along the shaft 605 to slide sleeve 250 over
driving bit 660 as previously discussed. Based on sliding and
rotating of the sleeve with respect to shaft 605, as previously
disclosed, the user engages the posts 275 into grooved channels 210
as shown in FIG. 11.
[0100] FIG. 11 is an example diagram illustrating a perspective
view of a fastener engaged in an insertion tool according to
embodiments herein.
[0101] As shown, sleeve 250 includes post 275-1 engaged in grooved
channel 210-1. As previously discussed, spring 680 pulls sleeve 250
and corresponding post 275-1 into termination end 408 of grooved
channel 210-1 towards handle 690. In a similar manner, each of one
or more posts 275 of sleeve 250 secures the head 150 of fastener
120 to the driving bit 660.
[0102] Note that embodiments herein can include swapping the posts
275 and grooved channels 210. For example, as discussed below, the
sleeve 250 of insertion tool 600 can be configured to include
channels instead of posts 275; the fastener can be configured to
include posts instead of grooved channels 210.
[0103] FIG. 12 is an example perspective view illustrating a
fastener including posts according to embodiments herein.
[0104] In accordance with one embodiment herein, fastener 1220
includes threads 1235 and a head 1250. The threads 1235 are
disposed at a first axial end 1299-1 of the fastener 1220. The head
1250 is disposed at a second axial end 1299-2 of the fastener 1220.
The head 1250 of the fastener 1220 includes a cavity 1260 in which
to receive a driving bit 660 disposed at an end of an insertion
tool 600 such as a screwdriver. The head 1250 of the fastener 1220
includes posts 1210 (e.g., post 1210-1, post 1210-2, post 1210-3)
protruding axially outward from the head 1250.
[0105] By way of a non-limiting example, the cavity 1260 in
fastener 1220 is configured to receive a torx bit disposed at the
end of an insertion tool. However, note that the cavity 1260 of
head 1250 can be bored to receive any suitable type of driving bit
(e.g., a phillips head bit, flat head bit, hex bit, socket,
etc.).
[0106] FIG. 13 is an example top view illustrating a fastener
including posts according to embodiments herein.
[0107] As shown, a core 1320 through a length of fastener 1220 is
hollow for receiving a guide wire and/or allowing passage of
matter. Such an embodiment is useful for applications in which the
fastener 1220 is a bone screw inserted into a bone. A large force
may be required to insert a screw into a bone. The guide wire can
be inserted in the core 1320 of fastener 1220 to facilitate
guidance of and insertion of the fastener 1220 into a bone or other
hard material.
[0108] As shown in this top view diagram of fastener 1220, the
posts 1210 on the fastener 1220 can be circumferentially spaced
apart from each other (e.g., 120 degrees apart for 3 posts 1210, 90
degrees apart for 4 posts 1210, etc.) on an outer surface or
sidewall of the head 1250 of the fastener 1220.
[0109] FIG. 14 is an example diagram illustrating replacement of
the posts 275 in the sleeve 250 of the insertion tool 600 with
respective channels 1475 (e.g., 1475-1, channel 1475-2, etc.)
according to embodiments herein.
[0110] In the embodiment of FIG. 14, the insertion tool 600
operates in the same way as discussed above even though the sleeve
250 is replaced with sleeve 1450 as shown in FIG. 14. To secure the
fastener 1220 to driving bit 660, the user slides and rotates
sleeve 1450 to engage posts 1475 into respective channels 1475. As
previously discussed, the sleeve 1450 can be spring-loaded to pull
the head of the fastener 1220 onto the respective driving bit 660
of insertion tool 600. In this embodiment, however, the channels
1475 of sleeve 1450 apply a force to posts 1210 of fastener 1220 to
secure the fastener 1220 to the driving bit 660.
[0111] FIG. 15 is an example diagram illustrating a T-shaped
grooved channel in a sleeve of an insertion tool according to
embodiments herein. As shown, example sleeve 1550 of insertion tool
600 includes channels 1575 (e.g., channel 1575-1, channel 1575-2, .
. . ) for receiving respective posts 1210 disposed on fastener
1220. Each respective channel 1575 can include an opening 1610 and
detents 1590 (e.g., detent 1590-1, detent 1590-2) to prevent the
sleeve 1550 from rotating subsequent to engaging of the respective
posts 1210 into channels 1575.
[0112] FIG. 16 is an example diagram illustrating engagement of
posts on a fastener into respective grooved channels of a sleeve of
an insertion tool according to embodiments herein. Once the posts
are received through opening 1610, the sleeve 1550 is rotated
either clockwise or counter-clockwise and then released. As shown,
sleeve 1550 can be spring-loaded such that release of the sleeve
1550 as shown in FIG. 16 results in pulling of the head 1250 of
fastener 1220 onto driving bit 660. While in the released position,
a respective detent 1590 of the channel 1575-1 prevents rotation of
the sleeve 1550 so that posts 1210 do not accidentally disengage
from the channels 1575 during insertion of the fastener 1220 into
work material. The fastener 1220 can be released after insertion
via application of a force on the sleeve towards the head 1250,
rotating of the sleeve 1550, and releasing of the sleeve 1550 such
that post 1210-1 releases from channel 1575-1 at respective opening
1610.
[0113] FIG. 17 is a flowchart 900 illustrating a method of
manufacturing a fastener according to embodiments herein.
[0114] In step 910, a machine receives a fastener 120. The fastener
120 includes a head 150 disposed at axial end 199-2 of the fastener
120 and threads 135 disposed at axial end 199-1 of the fastener
120. The head 150 of the fastener 120 includes a cavity 160 in
which to receive a driving bit 660.
[0115] In step 915, the machine removes a portion of material in
the head 150 to produce at least one grooved channel 275 (e.g.,
cavity) on a surface of the head 150.
[0116] In sub-step 920, the machine removes a portion of material
in the head 150 to produce multiple spaced grooved channels 275 on
an outer, circumferential surface of the head 150.
[0117] In sub-step 925, the machine produces each of multiple
spaced grooved channels 275 on the surface of the head 150 to be
open at one end (e.g., the open end 405) to receive a post 275
moved in a direction toward the axial end 199-1 of the fastener
120.
[0118] In sub-step 930, the machine produces each of the multiple
spaced grooved channels 275 on the surface of the head 150 to
include a termination end 408 to prevent the post 275 from sliding
in a direction toward the axial end 199-2 of the fastener 120.
[0119] FIGS. 18 and 19 combine to form a flowchart 1000 (e.g.,
flowchart 1000-1 and flowchart 1000-2) illustrating a method of
utilizing an insertion tool and fastener according to embodiments
herein.
[0120] In step 1010, a user receives a fastener 120.
[0121] In step 1015, the user inserts a driving bit 660 of a
screwdriver tool (e.g., insertion tool 600) into a cavity 160 at an
end of the fastener 120.
[0122] In step 1020, the user initiates insertion of posts 275 of
the screwdriver tool into grooved channels 210 disposed on
sidewalls of the fastener 120 to secure the fastener 120 to the
driving bit 660.
[0123] In sub-step 1025, the user slides the sleeve 250 along a
shaft 605 of the screwdriver tool towards the fastener 120 to slide
the posts 275 axially into the grooved channels 210 of the fastener
120.
[0124] In sub-step 1030, the user rotates the sleeve 250 about the
shaft 605 of the screwdriver tool to secure a head 150 of the
fastener 120 to the driving bit 660.
[0125] In sub-step 1035, the user releases the spring-loaded sleeve
250 to enable the spring-loaded sleeve 250 to pull the head 150 of
the fastener 120 towards a handle end of the screwdriver tool.
[0126] In step 1110, the user inserts the fastener 120 into an
object.
[0127] In step 1115, the user pushes on the spring-loaded sleeve
250 towards the threads of the fastener 120.
[0128] In step 1120, the user rotates the sleeve 250.
[0129] In step 1125, the user slides the sleeve 250 along the shaft
in an opposite direction away from the head 150 of the fastener
120. This step can include releasing the sleeve 250 so that the
spring 680 causes the sleeve 250 to slide axially along shaft 605
towards the handle 690, disengaging the posts 275 from the
respective grooved channels 210.
[0130] FIGS. 20 and 21 combine to form a flowchart 2000 (e.g.,
flowchart 2000-1 and flowchart 2000-2) illustrating a method of
utilizing an insertion tool 600 and fastener 1220 according to
embodiments herein.
[0131] In step 2010, a user receives a fastener 1220.
[0132] In step 2015, a user inserts a driving bit 660 of the
insertion tool 600 into a cavity 1260 at an end of the fastener
1220.
[0133] In step 2020, a user initiates engagement of posts 1210 on
sidewalls of the fastener 1220 into channels 1475 of the insertion
tool 600 to secure the fastener 1220 to the driving bit 660.
[0134] In step 2025, a user slides sleeve 1450 along a shaft 605 of
the insertion tool 600 towards the fastener 1220 to engage the
posts 1210 of the fastener 1220 into the channels 1475 of the
sleeve 1450.
[0135] In step 2030, a user rotates the sleeve 1450 about the shaft
605 of the insertion tool 600 to secure a head 1250 of the fastener
1220 to the driving bit 660.
[0136] In step 2035, a user releases the spring-loaded sleeve 1450
to enable the spring-loaded sleeve 1450 to pull the head 1250 of
the fastener 1220 towards a handle end of the insertion tool
600.
[0137] In step 2110 of FIG. 21, the user inserts the fastener 1220
into an object such as a bone.
[0138] In step 2115, subsequent to inserting the fastener 1220 into
the object, the user pushes on the spring-loaded sleeve 1450
towards the threads of the fastener 1220.
[0139] In step 2120, the user rotates the sleeve 1450.
[0140] In step 2125, the user slides the sleeve 1450 along the
shaft 605 in an opposite direction away from the head 1250 of the
fastener 1220. This step can include releasing the sleeve 1450 so
that the spring 680 in the insertion tool 600 causes the sleeve
1450 to slide axially along shaft 605 towards the handle 690,
disengaging the channels 1475 from the respective posts 1210 on the
fastener 1220.
[0141] Note again that techniques herein are well suited for use in
fastener and screwdriver applications. However, it should be noted
that embodiments herein are not limited to use in such applications
and that the techniques discussed herein are well suited for other
applications as well.
[0142] While this invention has been particularly shown and
described with references to preferred embodiments thereof, it will
be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in
form and details may be made therein without departing from the
spirit and scope of the present application as defined by the
appended claims. Such variations are intended to be covered by the
scope of this present application. As such, the foregoing
description of embodiments of the present application is not
intended to be limiting. Rather, any limitations to the invention
are presented in the following claims.
* * * * *