Segmented adjustable arm with locking mechanism

Abstract

A segmented adjustable arm device comprises a segment chain composed of a plurality of interconnected segments, where two adjacent ends of each pair of adjacent segments of the segment chain form a ball joint, one of the two adjacent ends of each pair of adjacent segments presents a spherical or partially spherical plug, and the other of the two adjacent ends of each pair of adjacent segments presents a spherical or partially spherical plug. And the other one of the two adjacent ends presents as a socket configured to receive and retain a plug, thereby allowing relative radial movement between the two segments of the pair of segments; and a locking mechanism comprising a locking system comprising one or more rigid elements arranged in series along a chain of segments, the locking system configured to pull the plurality of interconnected segments away from each other when subjected to an applied pressure and to increase friction at the ball joint to immobilize adjacent segments.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an adjustable arm, and more particularly to a segmented adjustable arm with a locking mechanism. Background Art

[0002] The adjustable arm is typically provided in the form of an assembly of interconnected components that form an elongated body that can be shaped and reshaped in various alignments and can be fixed in a desired alignment. The adjustable arm can have a variety of uses. For example, the adjustable arm can be used to hold a load (such as a screen (e.g., a television), a tool (e.g., a dental drill)) at a specific position in space by aligning the adjustable arm to a desired alignment and fixing it in that alignment. The adjustable arm can also be used to point to or direct a target in space, such as by holding a nozzle of a hose at the distal end of the adjustable arm, directing a fluid flow from the nozzle to a specific target. In some examples, the adjustable arm can include an internal conduit through which the fluid can be allowed to flow and then be dispensed through a nozzle at the distal end of the adjustable arm.

[0003] The adjustable arm may include a plurality of interconnected joined segments such that pairs of adjacent segments may be tilted relative to each other to assume a desired angle and secured in that position.

[0004] The adjustable arm may be useful in applications where the user wants to temporarily secure the arm in a desired alignment, and then change the alignment of the adjustable arm for other purposes. For example, a photographer may attach a camera to the adjustable arm, align the adjustable arm to face a desired viewing angle, and then reshape the adjustable arm and secure it in another alignment to direct the camera to another viewing angle. In another example, the adjustable arm may be used as an aid in holding one or more medical tools while performing a medical procedure, and a physician may find the adjustable arm useful.

[0005] The adjustable arm can also be used in machining to direct a stream of high pressure coolant onto the workpiece being machined. Applying high pressure coolant to the workpiece can effectively lubricate the workpiece and effectively cool the workpiece as the machining tool machines the workpiece. In addition, the high pressure coolant can be used to increase heat dissipation and remove metal chips and shavings (a byproduct of machining) from the workpiece and the machining tool.

[0006] Sometimes, when a high pressure fluid (eg, coolant) is transmitted through the adjustable arm, the arm may lose its initial user-induced bend and straighten due to the tremendous fluid pressure within the adjustable arm.

[0007] It may be desirable to provide a segmented adjustable arm that can be manipulated into a desired shape and locked in that shape to withstand substantial forces (e.g., heavy loads, high pressure coolant flow through the adjustable arm, etc.) and can be locked in place or released in a simple manner. Summary of the invention

[0008] Therefore, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a segmented adjustable arm device is provided, the segmented adjustable arm device comprising: a segment chain comprising a plurality of interconnected segments, wherein two adjacent ends of each pair of adjacent segments of the segment chain form a ball joint, one of the two adjacent ends of each pair of adjacent segments presents a spherical or partially spherical plug, and the other of the two adjacent ends presents a socket configured to receive and retain the plug, thereby allowing relative radial movement between the two segments in a pair; and a locking mechanism, the locking mechanism comprising: a locking system comprising one or more rigid elements extending along the segment chain and arranged in series, the locking system being configured to pull the plurality of interconnected segments away from each other when subjected to applied pressure, and to increase friction at the ball joint between each pair of adjacent segments so as to fix the adjacent segments of the segment chain in place, thereby fixing the segmented adjustable arm in a desired alignment form, and the locking system being configured to reduce friction at the ball joint between each pair of adjacent segments of the segment chain when pressure is released so as to make the segmented adjustable arm easily flexible; and a pressure applicator for applying or releasing pressure.

[0009] According to some embodiments of the invention, the locking system is configured to push the distal segment of the segment chain when subjected to an applied pressure.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the invention, the locking system is inserted into the segment chain.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the invention, the locking tether extends within a lumen defined within the segment link.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the invention, the plurality of rigid elements comprises balls arranged in series.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the invention, the plurality of rigid elements comprises balls and tubular members arranged in series.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the invention, a bore extending within the locking system defines an internal passageway.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the invention, a tube extends within the internal passageway.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the invention, the tube includes an inlet at a proximal portion of the adjustable arm, and an outlet at a distal portion of the adjustable arm.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the invention, the outlet is located at the distal end of the adjustable arm.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the invention, the pressure applicator comprises a plunger for applying pressure on one of the rigid elements of the locking system.

[0019] According to some embodiments of the invention, the pressure applicator comprises a threaded member configured to actuate the plunger.

[0020] According to some embodiments of the invention, the threaded member is oriented substantially orthogonal to the plunger.

[0021] According to some embodiments of the invention, the plunger is hollow to form a portion of the internal passage.

[0022] According to some embodiments of the invention, the device further comprises a second locking system.

[0023] According to some embodiments of the invention, the second locking system is configured to operate in a direction opposite to an operating direction of the locking system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] In order to better understand the present invention and appreciate its practical application, the following drawings are provided and referred to hereinafter. It should be noted that the drawings are given as examples only and do not limit the scope of the present invention in any way. The same parts are represented by the same reference numerals.

[0025] Figure 1 is a side view of a segmented adjustable arm with a locking mechanism according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Cross-sectional view of a segmented adjustable arm with a locking mechanism.

[0027] Figure 3 is an isometric view of a segmented adjustable arm with a locking mechanism having an internal conduit for delivering and dispensing fluids according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Cross-sectional view of a segmented adjustable arm with a locking mechanism.

[0029] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Exploded view of a segmented adjustable arm with a locking mechanism.

[0030] Fig. 6A is an isometric view of a segmented adjustable arm with a locking mechanism having an internal locking system including a ball according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 6B yes Fig. 6A Cross-sectional view of a segmented adjustable arm with a locking mechanism. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] In the following detailed description, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the present invention may be implemented without these specific details. In other cases, well-known methods, procedures, components, modules, units and / or circuits are not described in detail to avoid obscuring the present invention.

[0033] Although embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, discussions using terms such as "processing", "computing", "calculating", "determining", "establishing", "analyzing", "examining", etc. may refer to operations and / or processes of a computer, computing platform, computing system, or other electronic computing device that manipulates and / or converts data represented as physical (e.g., electronic) quantities within computer registers and / or memories into other data represented as physical quantities within computer registers and / or memories or other information non-transitory storage media (e.g., memory) that can store instructions for performing operations and / or processes. Although embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, the terms "multiple" and "multiple" as used herein may include, for example, "multiple" or "two or more". The terms "multiple" or "multiple" may be used throughout the specification to describe two or more components, devices, elements, units, parameters, etc. Unless explicitly stated, the method embodiments described herein are not limited to a particular order or sequence. In addition, some described method embodiments or elements thereof may occur or be performed simultaneously, at the same point in time, or concurrently. Unless otherwise stated, the conjunction "or" used herein should be understood as inclusive (any or all of the options).

[0034] Figure 1 is a side view of a segmented adjustable arm with a locking mechanism according to some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Cross-sectional view of a segmented adjustable arm with a locking mechanism.

[0035] The segmented adjustable arm 100 may include a segment chain 138 including a plurality of interconnected segments 130 and a locking mechanism 260 .

[0036] The adjacent ends of each pair of adjacent segments 130 of the segment chain form a ball and socket joint 136, one end of the adjacent ends of each pair of adjacent segments presents a spherical or partially spherical plug 134, and the other end of the adjacent ends presents a socket 132 configured to receive and retain the plug 134.

[0037] The ball joint may be designed to allow relative movement between segments of a pair of adjacent segments, for example, to allow the plug to be rotated within the socket 132 while being retained in the socket, thereby facilitating relative movement between two adjacent segments.

[0038] In some embodiments of the present invention, the ball joint 136 can provide the arm 100 with radial freedom and rotational freedom. Each pair of adjacent segments can be tilted at an angle relative to each other and / or can be rotated relative to each other. The relative tilt angle and rotation of each pair of adjacent segments of the segment chain 138 can define the desired alignment form and orientation of the arm 100 in space. For example, the arm 100 can be reshaped by tilting one or more pairs of adjacent segments relative to each other and / or by rotating one or more pairs of adjacent segments relative to each other. The maximum tilt between the two adjacent segments can be achieved when the neck 134a of the plug 134 of one of the adjacent segments contacts the socket 132 of another segment in the adjacent segments. For another example, when the distal end of the plug 134 of one of the adjacent segments contacts the inner surface of the socket 132 of another segment in the adjacent segments, the maximum tilt between the two adjacent segments can be achieved.

[0039] To hold the plug in the socket, a clip 190 may be used (see Figure 5 390) (e.g., an annular wire retainer) to prevent the plug from being accidentally released from the socket. In some embodiments of the present invention, a retainer such as a circular clamp, an elastic ring, a fastener, a hose clamp or any other retainer can be used to retain the plug in the socket.

[0040] The locking mechanism 260 may include a locking system of one or more rigid elements aligned in series along the segment chain (not shown in this figure, see Figure 2 250), the locking system is configured to pull the plurality of interconnected segments away from each other when subjected to applied pressure to increase friction at the ball joints between each pair of adjacent segments of the segment chain, thereby fixing movement between adjacent segments and securing the segmented adjustable arm in a desired alignment.

[0041] A pressure applicator 150 may be provided as desired for applying pressure on the locking system or for releasing pressure on the locking system.

[0042] The segments 138 of the arm 100 can be shaped and reshaped in various desired alignments, and the distal end of the arm 100 can be oriented, brought to, and securely positioned at a desired point in space. The locking mechanism 260 can secure the arm 10 in the desired alignment to maintain the shaping imparted to the arm 100 and the position and orientation of the distal end of the arm 100.

[0043] In some embodiments of the present invention, the arm 100 can hold a load at a distal end and support the load in a desired position in space when the arm 100 is immobile. The arm 100 can be configured to withstand loads and forces until a threshold is reached while maintaining the arm 100 in its set shape. For example, the arm 100 can support a mounted camera, smartphone, monitor, or other load. The arm 100 can be easily reshaped when flexing and then immobilized in a desired alignment. For example, when flexing, the arm 100 holding a camera can be reshaped to point the camera lens in a desired direction and then immobilized to keep the camera pointing in the desired direction.

[0044] In some embodiments of the present invention, arm 100 can be used in a medical procedure. Arm 100 can be shaped according to a desired configuration, aligned in a desired alignment, and immobilized to maintain its shape and orientation to hold one or more tools during a medical procedure. For example, arm 100 can be used as a utility tool for holding a part of a human body. Arm 100 can be used to hold surgical tools, such as a camera or a clamp.

[0045] In some embodiments of the present invention, when the arm 100 is flexible, relative movement is enabled between each pair of segments of the segment chain to align the arm 100 into a desired alignment. When the pressure applicator is operated, the locking mechanism immobilizes the arm 100 so that the arm 100 remains in the desired alignment.

[0046] In some embodiments of the invention, the locking mechanism 260 can secure the arm 100 by pulling the interconnected segments of the segment link 138 apart, increasing friction, and immobilizing relative motion between the segments 130. The locking mechanism can include a locking system (e.g., Figure 2 The locking system 250 comprises a series of rigid elements ( Figure 2180 and tubular member 220 are arranged in series along the arm of the segment). The locking system can be configured to pull the plurality of interconnected segments away from each other when subjected to applied pressure (e.g., from locking mechanism 260). For example, the locking system can be configured to push the distal segment 110 of the segment chain 138 when subjected to applied pressure, thereby pulling the interconnected segments away from each other, thereby extending the arm of the segment. In other embodiments of the present invention, the arm 100 can include a locking system that includes a ball, such as ball 180. The locking mechanism can secure the arm 100 by applying a force to the ball system to immobilize relative movement between the segments 130.

[0047] In some embodiments of the present invention, the locking mechanism 260 can make the arm 100 flexible by relaxing the pressure on the interconnected segments of the segment link 138. The locking system can be configured to reduce the friction at the ball joint 136 between each pair of adjacent segments of the segment link 138 when the applied pressure is released or reduced (e.g., the locking mechanism 260 releases the pressure on the locking system), thereby enabling relative movement between adjacent segments of the segment link 138 and making the arm 100 flexible.

[0048] In some embodiments of the present application, the locking mechanism 138 may include a pressure applicator 150. The pressure applicator 150 may be configured to apply pressure to the locking system and release the pressure on the locking system for (respectively) fixing the arm 100 and making the arm 100 flexible. The pressure applicator 150 may include a threaded member 160 that actuates a plunger 170 for applying pressure to the locking system and releasing the pressure on the locking system. The threaded member 160 may include a knob 166 for enhancing the grip of the threaded member, so that pressure is applied to the locking system when screwing in to fix the arm 100, and pressure is released from the locking system when screwing out to make the arm 100 flexible. In some embodiments of the present invention, the threaded member 160 is oriented substantially orthogonal to the plunger 170 and the second plunger 270. For example, the pressure applied by the threaded member 160 can be distributed in substantially equal amounts in two opposite directions between the locking system 250 and the second locking system 252. In some embodiments, the ball 176 may be disposed in juxtaposition with the end of the threaded member 160 to apply substantially equal pressure on both plungers 170 and 270 .

[0049] In some embodiments of the invention, the pressure applicator may include a mechanical, electromechanical, electromagnetic, pneumatic, or hydraulic mechanism, or other mechanism configured to apply (and release) pressure.

[0050] In some embodiments of the present invention, the segment link 138 may include a distal segment 110 (similar or different in shape from segment 130) at the distal end of the segment link 138. The distal segment 110 may be configured to be fixed when the arm 100 is immobilized, and may be released when the arm 100 is relaxed. The distal segment 110 may be designed to form a connection for connecting a load to the segmented adjustable arm 100. The distal segment 110 may include a hole (such as Figure 2 The distal segment 110 of the arm 100 may include a hole 114 therein configured to receive an insert or attachment means (e.g., a threaded member) of the load to hook or otherwise securely link the load to the distal segment 110 of the arm 100. The distal segment 110 may include a threaded portion, a magnet / electromagnet, a threaded hole, or any similar arrangement for connecting the load to the arm.

[0051] In some embodiments of the invention, a segmented adjustable arm may be connected in parallel or in series to one or more additional segmented adjustable arms.

[0052] In some embodiments of the present invention, the locking mechanism 260 may include a second locking system (such as Figure 2 The second locking system 252 of the arm 100 can be configured to operate in a direction opposite to the operating direction of the first locking system. This occurs, for example, when the pressure applicator is not positioned at the end of the arm, but is positioned along the arm at an intermediate position between the proximal end and the distal end of the arm 100. Therefore, the pressure applicator 150 can be designed to apply pressure on the first locking system and the second locking system to immobilize the arm 100, and release the pressure on the two locking systems to make the arm 100 flexible.

[0053] In some embodiments of the invention, the arm 100 may include a proximal segment 210 located at the proximal end of the arm 100. The proximal segment 210 may be linked to a segment chain in a similar manner to other segments, such that the proximal segment is stationary when the arm 100 is stationary, and the proximal segment can move when the arm 100 is flexible. The proximal segment 210 may include an anchoring arrangement (e.g., a threaded portion 216) for anchoring the arm 100 to a fixed location (e.g., to a wall, floor, ceiling, table, or other fixed object). The proximal segment 210 may include a magnet, a threaded hole, and / or other arrangements for anchoring the arm 100.

[0054] The segment link 138 may include interconnected segments, such as segment 130, proximal segment 210, distal segment 110, and dual socket segment 120, for receiving plugs at two opposing ends. In some embodiments of the present invention, the adjustable arm 100 may include clips 190, 191, and 192 at the ball joint 136 of the adjustable arm for holding the socket and plug of the ball joint 136 together and preventing the ball joint 136 from being disassembled (e.g., when the interconnected segments are pulled apart).

[0055] In some embodiments of the invention, the locking system 250 may include one or more rigid elements arranged in series along the segment chain 138. The rigid elements may include a series of balls 180 and tubular members 220, wherein each ball 180 (starting with ball 181 or proximal segment 210) pushes a subsequent tubular member 220, and each tubular member 220 pushes a subsequent ball when pressure is applied to the locking system 250. When pressure is applied to the distal tubular member 221, the distal tubular member 221 pushes the distal segment 110, thereby pulling the plurality of interconnected segments away from each other.

[0056] In some embodiments of the invention, the locking ties 250 can be inserted into the segment link 138, for example, into the hollow portion of each interconnected segment of the segment link 138. For example, the locking ties 250 can extend within a lumen 280 defined within the segment link 138. The balls 180 can be positioned within the plug 134, and the tubular member 220 can be positioned between the balls 180.

[0057] The tubular member 220 may be configured to optimize contact with the ball 180 to best transmit pressure to the ball 180. For example, the tubular member 220 may have a concave surface at each of its two opposing ends to maximize the contact surface with the ball 180. The tubular member 220 may be provided in the form of a cylinder or have an elongated body with a circular, elliptical, polygonal, or other cross-section.

[0058] In some embodiments of the present invention, the proximal segment 210 can be rotated and tilted (in the radial direction) relative to the pressure applicator 150. The pressure applicator 150 can have a socket 152 configured to receive and hold the ball-shaped end 212 of the proximal segment 210. In some embodiments of the present invention, the proximal segment 210 can be constrained to tilt along an axis defined by the groove 152a of the pressure applicator socket 152.

[0059] In some embodiments of the invention, the distal segment 110 can be rotated and tilted (in a radial direction) relative to the dual socket segment 120. The dual socket segment 120 can have a distal socket 126 configured to receive and retain the ball end 118 of the distal segment 110. The dual socket segment 120 can have a proximal socket 126a configured to receive and retain the plug 134 of the segment 130. In some embodiments of the invention, the distal segment 110 can be constrained to tilt along an axis defined by the groove 122a of the dual socket segment 120.

[0060] In some embodiments of the present invention, the adjustable arm and / or portions of the adjustable arm, such as one or more interconnected segments, a locking mechanism, one or more rigid elements (such as a ball and tubular member), and any other portion or portions of the adjustable arm, may comprise materials such as metal, metal composites, plastics, polymers, carbon fiber, composites, and any other suitable material.

[0061] Figure 3 300 is an isometric view of a segmented adjustable arm with a locking mechanism having an internal conduit for conveying and distributing fluids according to some embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments of the present invention, the internal conduit can be used as a passage for cables (such as electrical wires and optical cables). In some embodiments of the present invention, the internal conduit can be used to convey pressurized air and other fluids. In other embodiments of the present invention, the internal conduit may not be used to convey fluids (e.g., the hollow structure may have mechanical properties for support arm 300 and is not specifically designed for conveying fluids).

[0062] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a segmented adjustable arm with a locking mechanism, Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Exploded view of a segmented adjustable arm with a locking mechanism.

[0063] The segmented adjustable arm 300 may include a segment chain 338 including a plurality of interconnected segments 330 and a locking mechanism 460. The segment chain 338 of the arm 300 may be shaped and aligned as desired by the user, and the distal end of the arm 300 may be oriented to align and position at a desired point in space. The locking mechanism 460 may secure the arm 300 in a desired alignment to maintain the shaping imparted to the arm 300 and the orientation of the distal end of the arm 300.

[0064] In some embodiments of the invention, the arm 300 may be easily aligned while being flexed and then fixed in a desired alignment.

[0065] In some embodiments of the present invention, it may be provided to extend within arm 300 (see Figures 4 to 5 ) for dispensing fluid. The outlet of the conduit, such as nozzle 310, can be located at the distal portion of the arm 300 so that when the distal end of the arm 300 is directed toward a target (e.g., a workpiece to be processed), the fluid can be dispensed on the target. The fluid can enter the arm 300 through the inlet 352 of the pressure applicator 350 to be dispensed at the nozzle 310.

[0066] and Figure 1Similar to the adjustable arm of the present invention, the adjustable arm 300 may include a segment chain 338 according to some embodiments of the present invention. The adjacent ends of each pair of adjacent segments of the segment chain 338 may form a ball joint 336, thereby allowing relative movement (e.g., tilting, rotation) between the two segments in a pair. The ball joint 336 may provide radial freedom and rotational freedom for the adjustable arm 300. Each pair of adjacent segments may be tilted at an angle relative to each other, and each pair of adjacent segments may be rotated relative to each other. The relative tilt angle and rotation of each pair of adjacent segments of the segment chain 338 may define the alignment form and orientation of the arm 300 in space. According to some embodiments of the present invention, the locking mechanism 460 may be configured to immobilize the arm 300 by pulling the interconnected segments of the segment chain 338 apart to increase the friction between the engaged segments. The locking mechanism may include a locking system 450, which includes a series of rigid elements (e.g., balls 380 and tubular members 420). The locking system 450 can be configured to push the distal segments at the distal end of the arm when subjected to applied pressure (e.g., from the locking mechanism 460), thereby pulling the interconnected segments away from each other, increasing friction at the ball joint 336 between each pair of adjacent segments (by pulling the segments away from each other) to fix relative movement between adjacent segments and to fix the segment chain 338, thereby fixing the adjustable arm 300 in the desired alignment.

[0067] In some embodiments of the invention, the locking mechanism 460 may allow the adjustable arm 300 to flex by relaxing the pressure of the pressure applicator 350 , thereby reducing friction between the interconnected segments of the segment link 338 .

[0068] In some embodiments of the present application, the locking mechanism 460 may include a pressure applicator 350. The pressure applicator 350 may be configured to apply pressure to the locking system or release pressure on the locking system to respectively fix the adjustable arm 300 or make the arm 300 more flexible. The pressure applicator 350 may include a threaded member 360 that actuates a plunger ( Figure 4 The screw member 360 (e.g., an Allen screw with a hexagonal recess 366 operable with a hexagonal wrench) can be screwed in to apply pressure to the locking system, thereby immobilizing the adjustable arm 300, and can be screwed out to release pressure from the locking system, thereby loosening the adjustable arm 300.

[0069] In some embodiments of the present invention, the segment chain 338 may include a distal segment 320 located at the distal end of the segment chain 338. The distal segment 320 may be fixed when the arm 300 is stationary, and may move when the arm 300 is relaxed to orient the nozzle 310 (e.g., in the direction of the workpiece).

[0070] In some embodiments of the invention, the segment link 338 may include a proximal segment 340 at the proximal end of the segment link 338. The proximal segment 340 may be linked to a pressure applicator 350. The proximal segment 340 may include a spherical or partially spherical plug 334. The socket 332 of the proximal segment 340 may receive and retain the plug of the proximal segment 340.

[0071] In some embodiments of the invention, the adjustable arm 300 may include a clip 390 at the ball joint 336 of the arm 300 for holding the ball joint 336 together and preventing the ball joint 336 from being disassembled (eg, when the interconnected segments are pulled apart).

[0072] In some embodiments of the invention, the locking system 450 may include a hole extending within the locking system 450, thereby defining an internal passage 430a. The internal passage 430a can be used to transmit fluid through the arm 300. Each ball 380 and each tubular member 420 of the locking system 450 may include a hole so that the holes are linked in series, thereby defining an elongated internal passage 430a through the adjustable arm 300. The plunger 370 may also be hollow and include one or more side holes 378 that are fluidly linked to the internal passage 430a. The fluid can be introduced into the internal passage 430a through the inlet 352, the plunger 370, pass along the internal passage 430a within the locking system 450, and then be dispensed from the nozzle 310.

[0073] In some embodiments of the present invention, a tube 430 may be provided within the internal channel 430a for transmitting fluid. The tube 430 may include an inlet (e.g., inlet 352) at the proximal portion of the arm 300 and an outlet (e.g., nozzle 310) at the distal portion of the adjustable arm. The tube 430 may be made of an elastic material that can bend elastically following the curvature of the arm 300 and can withstand high pressure (e.g., 70 bar) and high temperature (e.g., 70 degrees Celsius).

[0074] In some embodiments of the present invention, the adjustable arm 300 may include a gasket (e.g., an O-ring) and a sealant to prevent fluid leakage. The distal segment 320 of the adjustable arm 300 may have a groove configured to receive an O-ring 410. The O-ring 410 of the distal segment 320 may be connected to the tube 430. The pressure applicator 350 may have a groove configured to receive an O-ring 416. The O-ring 416 of the locking segment 350 may be connected to the threaded insert 460. The first tubular member 440 may have a groove configured to receive an O-ring 414, which is connected to the tube 430. The first segment 340 may have a groove configured to receive an O-ring 412, which is connected to the first tubular member 440.

[0075] Fig. 6Ais an isometric view of a segmented adjustable arm with a locking mechanism having an internal locking system including a ball according to some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 6B yes Fig. 6A Cross-sectional view of a segmented adjustable arm with a locking mechanism.

[0076] The segmented adjustable arm 500 may include a segment chain 538 including a plurality of interconnected segments 530 and a locking mechanism 660. The segment chain 538 of the arm 500 may be shaped and aligned as desired by the user, and the distal end of the arm 500 may be oriented and aligned at a desired point in space. The locking mechanism 660 may secure the arm 500 in a desired alignment to maintain the shaping imparted to the arm 500 and the orientation of the distal end of the arm 500.

[0077] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the adjustable arm 500 may include a segment chain 538. The adjacent ends of each pair of adjacent segments of the segment chain 538 may form a ball joint 536, thereby allowing relative movement (e.g., tilting, rotation) between the paired segments. The ball joint 536 may provide radial freedom and rotational freedom for the adjustable arm 500. Each pair of adjacent segments may be tilted at an angle relative to each other, and each pair of adjacent segments may be rotated relative to each other. The relative tilt angle and rotation of each pair of adjacent segments of the segment chain 538 may define the alignment form and orientation of the arm 500 in space. According to some embodiments of the present invention, the locking mechanism 660 may be configured to immobilize the arm 500 by pulling apart the interconnected segments of the segment chain 538 to increase the friction between the engaged segments. The locking mechanism may include a locking system 650, which includes a series of rigid elements (e.g., balls 580a, 580b, 580c, 580d arranged in series). The locking system 650 can be configured to push the distal segments at the distal end of the arm when subjected to applied pressure (e.g., from the locking mechanism 660), thereby pulling the interconnected segments away from each other, increasing friction at the ball joint 536 between each pair of adjacent segments (by pulling the segments away from each other), thereby fixing relative movement between adjacent segments, and fixing the segment chain 538 to secure the adjustable arm 500 in the desired alignment.

[0078] In some embodiments of the invention, the locking mechanism 660 may allow the adjustable arm 500 to flex by relaxing the pressure of the pressure applicator 550 , thereby reducing friction between the interconnected segments of the segment link 538 .

[0079] In some embodiments of the present application, the locking mechanism 660 may include a pressure applicator 550. The pressure applicator 550 may be configured to apply pressure to the locking system or release the pressure on the locking system to fix the adjustable arm 500 or make the arm 500 flexible accordingly. The pressure applicator 550 may include a threaded member 560 that actuates a locking system plunger 570 to apply pressure to the locking system and release the pressure on the locking system. The threaded member 560 may be screwed in to drive the threaded member plunger 564 into the pressure applicator 550. When pushed into the pressure applicator 550, the threaded member plunger 564 may apply pressure to the locking system plunger 570, thereby driving the locking system plunger 570 toward the proximal ball 581 to apply pressure to the locking system. When pressure is applied to the locking system, the adjustable arm 500 is fixed. The threaded member 560 is screwed out to release pressure from the locking system, thereby loosening the adjustable arm 500.

[0080] In some embodiments of the invention, the segment chain 538 may include a distal segment 520 at the distal end of the segment chain 538. The distal segment 520 may be fixed when the arm 500 is stationary, and the distal segment 520 may be moved to orient the nozzle 510 (e.g., in the direction of the workpiece) when the arm 500 is relaxed. The nozzle 510 may be screwed to the distal segment 520. A different component may be used at the distal end of the arm 500 instead of the nozzle 510, for example, a fixture may be used to hold an accessory (such as a camera).

[0081] In some embodiments of the invention, the segment link 538 may include a proximal segment 540 at the proximal end of the segment link 538. The proximal segment 540 may be linked to a pressure applicator 550. The proximal segment 540 may include a spherical or partially spherical plug 534. The socket 532 of the proximal segment 540 may receive and retain the plug of the proximal segment 540.

[0082] In some embodiments of the present invention, segment 530 may include a plurality of sub-segments 530a-c. Proximal terminal segment 530a may include a socket 532 and a ball 580a. Proximal terminal segment 530a may include a proximal segment threaded portion 530aa for connecting to intermediate sub-segment 530b at intermediate segment proximal threaded portion 530ba. Intermediate sub-segment 530b may include a tubular lumen 530d including balls 580b and 580c. Intermediate sub-segment 530b may include an intermediate sub-segment distal threaded portion 530bb connected to distal terminal segment 530c at distal terminal segment threaded portion 530ca. Distal terminal segment 530c may include a plug 534 and a ball 580d. Segment chain 538 may be assembled by screwing sub-segments (such as sub-segments 530a-c) together and inserting balls (such as balls 580a-d) of a locking system.

[0083] In some embodiments of the invention, the locking system 650 may include one or more rigid elements arranged in series along the segment chain 538. The rigid elements may include a series of balls, such as balls 580a-d, wherein each ball pushes the subsequent ball when pressure is applied to the locking system 650. When pressure is applied to the distal ball 582, the distal ball 582 pushes the distal segment 520 to pull the multiple interconnected segments of the segment chain 538 away from each other and secure the arm 500.

[0084] In some embodiments of the invention, the locking tether 650 can be inserted into the segment link 538, for example, into the hollow portion of each interconnected segment of the segment link 538. For example, the locking tether 650 can extend within a lumen 680 defined within the segment link 538. The ball 580d can be positioned within the plug 534, the ball 580a can be positioned within the socket 532, and the balls 580b and 580c can be positioned within the tubular lumen 530d of the segment 530. The balls 580a and 580d can be larger than the balls 580b and 580c.

[0085] In some embodiments of the invention, some of the balls may have different sizes. In other embodiments of the invention, the balls may have substantially the same size.

[0086] Different embodiments are disclosed herein. Features of certain embodiments may be combined with features of other embodiments. Therefore, certain embodiments may be a combination of features of multiple embodiments. The foregoing description of the embodiments of the present invention is provided for the purpose of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise form disclosed. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that, in view of the above teachings, many modifications, variations, substitutions, changes and equivalents are possible. Therefore, it should be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes that fall within the true spirit of the present invention.

[0087] Although certain features of the present invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications, substitutions, changes and equivalents will now occur to those skilled in the art. It is therefore to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes that fall within the true spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A segmented adjustable arm device, comprising: A segment chain comprising a plurality of interconnected segments, wherein two adjacent ends of each pair of adjacent segments of the segment chain form a ball joint, one of the two adjacent ends of each pair of adjacent segments presenting a spherical or partially spherical plug and the other of the two adjacent ends presenting a socket configured to receive and retain the plug, thereby allowing relative radial movement between the two segments of the pair; and Locking mechanism, including: a locking system including one or more rigid elements extending along the segment chain and arranged in series, the locking system being configured to pull the plurality of interconnected segments away from each other when subjected to an applied pressure and to increase friction at the ball joints between each pair of adjacent segments to immobilize adjacent segments of the segment chain relative to each other, thereby securing the segmented adjustable arm in a desired alignment, and the locking system being configured to reduce friction at the ball joints between each pair of adjacent segments of the segment chain when the pressure is released to allow the segmented adjustable arm to flex; and A pressure applicator is used to apply or release the pressure.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The locking system is configured to push the distal segment of the segment chain when subjected to applied pressure.

3. The device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The locking system is inserted into the segment chain.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein: The locking tether extends within a lumen defined within the segment link.

5. The device according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein: A plurality of said rigid elements comprise balls arranged in series.

6. The device according to claim 5, wherein: A plurality of said rigid elements include balls and tubular members arranged in series.

7. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: Extending within the locking system is a bore defining an interior passageway.

8. The device according to claim 7, wherein: A tube extends within the interior passage.

9. The device according to claim 8, wherein: The tube includes an inlet at a proximal portion of the adjustable arm, and an outlet at a distal portion of the adjustable arm.

10. The device according to claim 9, wherein: The outlet is located at the distal end of the adjustable arm.

11. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: The pressure applicator comprises a plunger for applying pressure on one of the rigid elements of the locking system.

12. The device according to claim 11, wherein The pressure applicator includes a threaded member configured to actuate the plunger.

13. The device according to claim 12, wherein: The threaded member is oriented substantially orthogonal to the plunger.

14. The device according to claim 11, wherein: The plunger is hollow to form a portion of the internal passage.

15. The device of claim 11, further comprising a second locking system.

16. The device according to claim 15, wherein: The second locking system is configured to operate in a direction opposite to an operating direction of the locking system.

17. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein: At least one segment of the segment chain includes a plurality of sub-segments.

18. The device according to claim 17, wherein: The sub-segment includes a threaded portion.

Images