Abstract: A prosthetic adaptor includes a post plate, a grip plate coupled to the post plate, and an equipment interface coupled to the post plate. The equipment interface can be coupled to the post plate at an end of the post plate distal from the grip plate. The post plate can include a concave surface. The concave surface can be configured to receive a Hosmer-like prosthetic hook.

Abstract: A robotic assembly control system is disclosed. The robotic assembly control system includes an exoskeleton apparatus adapted to be worn by a user, at least one robotic assembly, the at least one robotic assembly controlled by the user by way of the exoskeleton, and at least one mobile platform, the at least one mobile platform controlled by the user and wherein the at least one robotic assembly is attached to the at least one mobile platform.

Abstract: There is disclosed a biomechanically driven prosthetic thumb assembly. Embodiments include an H-shaped rocker and a distal ring configured to receive a user's residual thumb, the distal ring and the rocker each independently and rotatively coupled between a coupling tip and a proximal anchor plate configured for affixing to a hand strap secured to a user. The coupling tip is articulated in response to a pulling force of the H-shaped rocker. Additional embodiments include a bidirectional thumb assembly including a ring mounted upon an adjustable ring tendon that is rotatively coupled between a coupling tip and a proximal anchor plate, which is rotatively coupled with a hand strap attached to the user. Vertical movement of the residual thumb within the ring actuates the coupling tip within a vertical plane. Lateral movement of the residual thumb within the ring actuates the coupling tip within a lateral plane. Other embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: The disclosure provides apparatus and methods of use pertaining to a prosthetic finger assembly. In one embodiment, the assembly includes a coupling tip and a distal ring coupled with the coupling tip. The assembly further includes a proximal ring coupled with the distal ring. A rocker formed in an H-shape with a first end forming a first split prong and a second end forming a second split prong may extend between the coupling tip and the proximal ring. The coupling tip, distal ring, proximal ring, and H-shaped rocker may all be hingedly connected such that movements of the residual finger within the proximal ring articulate the distal ring together with the rocker to articulate the coupling tip. Other embodiments are also disclosed.

Abstract: The disclosure provides apparatus and methods of use pertaining to a bidirectional biomechanical prosthetic finger assembly. One embodiment includes a metacarpophalangeal (MCP) pivot configured for swivelable attachment to a hand of a user, a distal coupler, and an articulation assembly rotatively coupled therebetween. A multiple-finger ring configured to receive a user's residual finger and at least one adjacent finger is disposed upon the articulation assembly, and may be adjusted to a target location based on a length of the residual finger. The articulation assembly is configured to utilize vertical movements of the residual and/or adjacent finger(s) within the multiple-finger ring to articulate the distal coupler within a plane parallel to an x-z plane, and the MCP pivot is configured to utilize lateral movements of the residual finger within the ring to articulate the distal coupler within a plane parallel to an x-y plane. Other embodiments are also disclosed.

Abstract: A non-electrical stringed instrument sound effects device includes a crosspiece, having a string interface, and a strapping system that is configured to removably fasten the crosspiece, including the string interface, around a plucking or strumming hand of a player of the stringed musical instrument. A method of creating a sound effect using the device includes attaching the device to a plucking or strumming hand of a player of a stringed musical instrument such that the strapping system extends around the hand and the crosspiece is disposed adjacent the outside of the hand, positioning the hand in a conventional plucking or strumming position such that the string interface of the crosspiece extends across at least one of the strings, and manipulating the string interface of the crosspiece against the strings while plucking or strumming to achieve a desired sound effect without use of electrical power.

Abstract: A prosthetic instrument is provided for attaching to a forearm shaft of an upper limb amputee to enable receipt of a handle, such as a weight-lifting barbell. The instrument includes a rod having a proximal end for receiving the forearm shaft and a distal end; and a yoke having a pair of prongs that extend from a bridge that connects to the distal end, wherein said pair of prongs provide a gap into which to insert the handle. Each prong includes a through-hole along a common axis to accommodate a clamp pin to secure the handle.

Abstract: A surgical tool includes a drive assembly including a head assembly and a cutting assembly coupled to the drive assembly. The cutting assembly includes a first blade having a first cutting surface and a first contact surface. The cutting assembly also includes a second blade pivotally coupled to the first blade. The second blade has a second cutting surface and a second contact surface. The first and second contact surfaces define a constant travel ratio.

Abstract: A simple and inexpensive prosthetic device for manually challenged patients comprising a tube of moderately elastic material which can be stretched over a portion of the patient's anatomy, such as a hand, forearm stub or the like, and which can receive and firmly hold a variety of tools to enable the patient to perform numerous tasks which normally require the use of fingers.

Abstract: A prosthetic instrument is provided for attaching to a forearm shaft of an upper limb amputee to enable receipt of a handle, such as a weight-lifting barbell. The instrument includes a rod having a proximal end for receiving the forearm shaft and a distal end; and a yoke having a pair of prongs that extend from a bridge that connects to the distal end, wherein said pair of prongs provide a gap into which to insert the handle. Each prong includes a through-hole along a common axis to accommodate a clamp pin to secure the handle.

Abstract: This invention relates to aid devices for assisting people inhibited in their movement of especially the hands and/or wrists, such as people who are physically impaired due to arthritis, injury, or other physiological problems giving reduced strength. This is solved by introducing an aid tool comprising at least two grippers and means to attach each gripper to a finger of a person, where the grippers are adapted to follow the individual finger in a movement in the direction of closing and loosen of a grip, and where an activation of the aid tool includes locking the grippers unidirectionally in the present position. The invention further introduces mounting means for attaching the aid tool to a body part, and where the mounting means comprises coupling means for detaching and attaching this and other tools according to the need.

Abstract: This invention relates to aid devices for assisting people inhibited in their movement of especially the hands and/or wrists, such as people who are physically impaired due to arthritis, injury, or other physiological problems giving reduced strength. This is solved by introducing an aid tool comprising at least two grippers and means to attach each gripper to a finger of a person, where the grippers are adapted to follow the individual finger in a movement in the direction of closing and loosen of a grip, and where an activation of the aid tool includes locking the grippers unidirectionally in the present position. The invention further introduces mounting means for attaching the aid tool to a body part, and where the mounting means comprises coupling means for detaching and attaching this and other tools according to the need.

Abstract: An adjustable socket system, method, and kit for use with prosthetic devices or orthotic, orthopedic, or exoskeletal support devices that includes a paddle and a compressing device coupled to the paddle. The paddle is chosen from a plurality of paddles of different shapes in such a way that the paddle inner surface is substantially coextensive with a soft tissue area overlying skeletal structures. The compressing device presses the paddle against the soft tissue area in order to minimize the motion of the paddle relative to the underlying skeletal structures without causing discomfort to the user or compressing areas not in contact with the paddle, allowing compressed tissue to flow into uncompressed areas. The system, method, and kit can include an external tool, sensors, actuators, and controllers, to assist fitting and for adjustment after fitting. A stabilizer can be added to resist the bending force on the paddle.

Abstract: A system and method for stabilizing a position of an object are disclosed. The system comprises a housing that includes a subsystem. The system also includes an attachment arm coupled to the housing. At least one first sensor is placed along the attachment arm, wherein the attachment arm is configured to receive the object thereto. In response to an unintentional muscle movement by a user that adversely affects the motion of the object, the subsystem stabilizes the position of the object. The method comprises providing a subsystem within a housing and coupling an attachment arm to the housing. The method also includes placing at least one first sensor along the attachment arm, wherein the attachment arm is configured to receive the object thereto. In response to an unintentional muscle movement by a user that adversely affects the motion of the object, the subsystem stabilizes the position of the object.

Abstract: A hand-held tool for individuals who have diminished use of their hands or reduced gripping strength due to infirmity or medical condition that provides a number of shaped spaces for seating and manipulation of various items that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to manipulate. Among the multiple shaped spaces is a space for a writing instrument and a space for an eating utensil enabling a user to write and eat without for example, directly gripping a pencil or a fork.

Abstract: A handling device for persons with a limited gripping function, in particular for gripping utensils such as pens, comprising an orthotic support adapted to be secured to a part of the body of the person; a utensil holder situated on the support, wherein the utensil holder includes gripping means; and a pneumatic, electric, or magnetic drive system or a combination thereof operative on the gripping means. Also described is a wheelchair, comprising the aforementioned handling device, thus allowing optimum carrying and operation or use of the device.

Abstract: This invention relates to aid devices for assisting people inhibited in their movement of especially the hands and/or wrists, such as people who are physically impaired due to arthritis, injury, or other physiological problems giving reduced strength. This is solved by introducing an aid tool comprising at least two grippers and means to attach each gripper to a finger of a person, where the grippers are adapted to follow the individual finger in a movement in the direction of closing and loosen of a grip, and where an activation of the aid tool includes locking the grippers unidirectionally in the present position. The invention further introduces mounting means for attaching the aid tool to a body part, and where the mounting means comprises coupling means for detaching and attaching this and other tools according to the need.

Abstract: A self-feeding apparatus for the disabled and elderly, which comprises: a support base; a holder for an open food container, pivotally connected to the base; an article for scooping food from the container; a system for moving the scooping article from a food scooping position from the container and a food dispensing position at a selected height from the base corresponding to the user's mouth. The system includes a first arm slantingly extending from the base and a second arm, arranged in a substantially horizontal position and slidably mounted on the first arm, the food scooping article being slidably mounted on the second arm. A motor is further provided for sliding the second arm along the first arm and the food scooping article along the second arm and for rotating the food container holder. At least one tank for liquid or semi liquid food and for beverages is placed on the base and a conveyor is provided for transporting the food from the tank to the user's mouth.

Abstract: A gripping assist device is removably attachable to the forearm of a user. The assist device has a sleeve with an opening sized to receive a handle or grip of an item.

Abstract: A gripping mechanism for gripping an object includes a base, a first gripping module, a second gripping module, and a driving device. The first gripping module is disposed on the base and has at least one receiving slot. The second gripping module is movably disposed in the receiving slot. The driving device is disposed on the base and connected to the first gripping module and the second gripping module. The driving device is operable to drive the first gripping module to switch between an opened state and a closed state, or drive the second gripping module to move relative to the first gripping module to enable the gripping mechanism to grip or release the object.

Abstract: A handheld device for canceling unintentional muscle movement. The device includes a base comprising a handgrip for a user to hold, a gripping element linked to the base for releasably connecting the handheld device to an object, a sensor that detects movement of the base, a controller linked to the sensor, and at least one actuator that operates under control of the controller to cause movement of the gripping element in a direction that at least partially counteracts the detected movement of the base.

Abstract: The invention relates to a prosthetic grip unit (1) having a base body (2) on which connection means (3) are disposed for fastening said grip unit to an upper extremity, at least two extensions (10, 20) protruding from said connection means, a first extension (10) being movable relative to the second extension (20) from a protruding position into a flush position, wherein the pivot axis (14) has a perpendicular orientation to the base body (2) and the first extension (10) is motor driven.

Abstract: A control device for a robot arm is designed such that, based on information on a transportation state database in which information on a transportation state of a person operating the arm is recorded, an impedance setting unit sets a mechanical impedance set value of the arm, and an impedance control unit controls a mechanical impedance value of the arm to the mechanical impedance set value thus set.

Abstract: A simplified prosthetic device and methods of use thereof is disclosed with splinting means; an elongate static arm fixedly attached to said splinting means; an elongate mobile arm with a first end and second end, said mobile arm being flexibly attached at said first end to said static arm; an elastic element for allowing re-extension of said mobile arm and attached to said mobile arm and an anchor point; means for translating gross body movements to the mobile arm; and an attachment being attached to the second end of the mobile arm.

Abstract: Activity specific finger prostheses includes rubber thimble-like sockets that are sized and shaped to be positioned over an amputated finger residuum. Each socket has an activity specific tool attached to the distal end thereof. A display stand is included for storing the sockets and their respective tool during periods of non-use. Posts extend upward from the display stand top surface, wherein each socket has its own post. A formfitting insert is monolithically formed with at the socket distal tip. The base of each tool is fastened firmly to the insert. The tools include a jackknife blade, a bottle-opener/slot screwdriver, a saw blade, a heavy wire utility hook, a Phillips screwdriver, scissors, a can-opener and a corkscrew. A miniature rubber or plastic phallus or personal contoured massage device is also included, anchored to a rubber fingertip.

Abstract: A prosthetic device for golfing having an elongate resilient body with an axis, a first end, a second end and an exterior golf club support surface extending along the axis between the first end and the second end. Gripping members are positioned on opposed sides of the golf club support surface adjacent the first end. The gripping members are adapted to grip a golf club shaft and maintain the golf club shaft engaged with the golf club support surface. A coupling is provided at the first end which is adapted to be secured to a terminal device worn by the user. The coupling element may be either a male end or female end attached to the first end.

Abstract: A handling device for persons with a limited gripping function, in particular for gripping utensils such as pens, comprising an orthotic support adapted to be secured to a part of the body of the person; a utensil holder situated on the support, wherein the utensil holder includes gripping means; and a pneumatic, electric, or magnetic drive system or a combination thereof operative on the gripping means. Also described is a wheelchair, comprising the aforementioned handling device, thus allowing optimum carrying and operation or use of the device.

Abstract: A prosthetic arm apparatus comprising a plurality of segments that provide a user of the prosthetic arm apparatus with substantially the same movement capability and function as a human arm.

Abstract: A realistic looking hand prosthesis made preferably of an elastomeric material is formed to hold a substantially spherical ball. The ball is held in the hand securely by friction between a ball and a hand made of a rubber like material wherein the ball is slightly larger in diameter than the conformed hand. The ball may be selectively rotationally oriented in three orthogonal directions of angular freedom. The ball is provided with various attachment means for attaching implements, which attachment means may include holes of various shapes and sizes, holes with projections, magnetic attaching means and threaded or other fastening means. Providing of angular adjustment in three orthogonal directions enables the ball to be able to attach a large number of useable implements to be positioned so as to aim the axis of each implement as needed and to rotate about its axis. The ball may be utilized in connection with a natural or prosthetic hand.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a pre-positionable prosthetic hand, including one or more pre-positionable joints. Pre-positionable joints in accordance with embodiments of the present invention include a multi-axial thumb joint, a metacarpal-phalangeal joint and a wrist joint. Additionally, the present invention may include a number of pre-positionable phalanges or fingers having a segmented construction, which allows them to be placed in various positions. The present invention may be used in connection with a pentadactyl glove and may be positioned in such griping positions as: a key or lateral grip, a hook grip, a cylindrical grip, a spherical grip and a tip-pinch grip.

Abstract: A bandage which may be used for the forearm or as an upper arm triple traction bandage includes a bandage strap (3) that engages a ring (2) to form a loop. At least one elastic bandage strap (4) engages the ring (2) and encloses a cable (6) which at one end is secured to the ring (2) and has a fastening device at its other end (4a). The fastening device is formed by a strap connector (11, 12, 13) having a flat lower part (11) which is adapted to the strap width. The upper side is covered by a flat upper part (12) onto which a clamp slide (13) is pushed that engages under the lower part (11) and firmly presses the lower part and upper part together with the strap end (4a) lying between them. The strap connector (11, 12, 13) has a clamp-free cable passage (14, 15, 16) and a bracket (19) for securing the strap connector (11, 12, 13) to a prosthesis part.

Abstract: An educational prosthesis device for a wearer of an upper limb prosthesis that includes a grasping device which extends from a distal portion thereof. The device includes an interactive, computerized system for teaching how to use the prosthesis for manual activities, and a computer including a display and input buttons. A program executable by the computer displays on the display a selection of modules that may be selected by the wearer and provide different interactive education sessions. The device further includes a plurality of instruments attachable onto the grasping elements and which are configured for performing predetermined tasks displayed by the interactive computerized system. The device also may include a protective sleeve having a figurine mounted thereon and a garment sleeve having decorations.

Abstract: A golf prosthesis assisting an upper extremity amputee to swing a golf club. In one embodiment, the prosthesis comprises first and second prosthetic sockets in which the amputee's limbs are received. An extension pylon extends from the first prosthetic socket towards the golf club. The second prosthetic socket is attached to the extension pylon, thereby assisting the amputee in keeping shoulders, back and hips in proper alignment during back swing and return swing. There is also a more complete transfer of energy into the swing from the shoulders, back and legs. A wrist terminal device connects the extension pylon to the golf club. The wrist terminal device emulates cocking and release of the wrists during a conventional golf swing. The wrist terminal device provides a club holder firmly holding the golf club, and a rotary joint advantageously restrained from rotation in all but a preselected plane.

Abstract: A gripper device comprising at least two portions which are coupled together and which can be moved towards one another to effect a gripping action and away from one another to effect a release action. An electrical motor is arranged to effect such movement, and a battery is connected to supply electrical current to the motor. A capacitor device is also connected to be capable of supplying electrical current to the electrical motor. A control device is arranged to cause the capacitor device to supply electrical current to the electrical motor after supply of electrical current to the electrical motor by the battery, to increase the strength of the gripping action.

Abstract: A prosthetic device for use by persons having a physically impaired hand and comprised of a rigid support to be securely mounted onto the forearm of the user. Permanently joined to the support is a metallic elongated tubular socket having a non-circular internal cross section to receive and secure a selected utensil terminating in a complementary cross section for an interfit within said socket.

Abstract: A golf prosthesis assisting an upper extremity amputee to swing a golf club. In one embodiment, the prosthesis comprises first and second prosthetic sockets in which the amputee's limbs are received. An extension pylon extends from the first prosthetic socket towards the golf club. The second prosthetic socket is attached to the extension pylon, thereby assisting the amputee in keeping shoulders, back and hips in proper alignment during back swing and return swing. There is also a more complete transfer of energy into the swing from the shoulders, back and legs. A wrist terminal device connects the extension pylon to the golf club. The wrist terminal device emulates cocking and release of the wrists during a conventional golf swing. The wrist terminal device provides a club holder firmly holding the golf club, and a rotary joint advantageously restrained from rotation in all but a preselected plane.

Abstract: A golf prosthesis assisting an upper extremity amputee to swing a golf club. In one embodiment, the prosthesis comprises first and second prosthetic sockets in which the amputee's limbs are received. An extension pylon extends from the first prosthetic socket towards the golf club. The second prosthetic socket is attached to the extension pylon, thereby assisting the amputee in keeping shoulders, back and hips in proper alignment during back swing and return swing. There is also a more complete transfer of energy into the swing from the shoulders, back and legs. A wrist terminal device connects the extension pylon to the golf club. The wrist terminal device emulates cocking and release of the wrists during a conventional golf swing. The wrist terminal device provides a club holder firmly holding the golf club, and a rotary joint advantageously restrained from rotation in all but a preselected plane.

Abstract: A golf prosthesis assisting an upper extremity amputee to swing a golf club. In one embodiment, the prosthesis comprises first and second prosthetic sockets in which the amputee's limbs are received. An extension pylon extends from the first prosthetic socket towards the golf club. The second prosthetic socket is attached to the extension pylon, thereby assisting the amputee in keeping shoulders, back and hips in proper alignment during back swing and return swing. There is also a more complete transfer of energy into the swing from the shoulders, back and legs. A wrist terminal device connects the extension pylon to the golf club. The wrist terminal device emulates cocking and release of the wrists during a conventional golf swing. The wrist terminal device provides a club holder firmly holding the golf club, and a rotary joint advantageously restrained from rotation in all but a preselected plane.

Abstract: An attachment for use with a prosthesis includes an adapter portion that is adapted to be secured to a prosthesis, a holder portion that is adapted to hold a handle, a connector portion that is pivotally attached to the adapter portion and that connects the adapter portion to the holder portion, and a stabilizing member connected to the adapter portion that is adapted to couple with a stabilizing wire lead extending from the prosthesis.

Abstract: A utensil holding device including a support portion adapted for coupling with the hand and wrist of a user. A utensil holding portion is secured to the support portion.

Abstract: A utensil holding device including a support portion adapted for coupling with the hand and wrist of a user. A utensil holding portion is secured to the support portion.

Abstract: An athletic equipment attachment for use by persons having a stump arm, such as amputees and persons having congenital birth defects, is described and claimed. The inventive athletic equipment attachment includes a body having a top end with an adjustable opening configured to receive a person's stump arm, and a bottom end with connecting means for either removably or permanently connecting the attachment to the handle of a piece of athletic equipment, such as a field hockey stick, an ice hockey stick, a golf club or the like. The attachment can also be used as a rehabilitative tool or in connection with items for daily use, such as brooms or mops.

Abstract: A fishing rod apparatus for use as an upper extremity prosthesis attachment. An upper extremity prosthesis receives the assembled components of the fishing rod apparatus, which comprises an operational extension of the upper extremity prosthesis. An adjustable wrist unit insertably engages an upper extremity prosthesis, and receives a modified handle member having a handle end and a reel seat end. The handle end has a threaded stud which engages the wrist unit. The reel seat end has a bore which receives a conventional rod blank by means of an extension adapted to fit the bore. The rod blank may be secured to the modified handle member by epoxy, or it may have means for releasably attaching to the modified handle member. Once the rod blank is secured in place, a conventional reel is mounted on the reel seat end of the modified handle member. The fishing rod apparatus of the present invention is most advantageously used by a fisherman who has lost only one arm.

Abstract: A device that assists the motor control of a physically impaired individual, allowing the person to do useful work by providing a coordinational support in all three orthogonal dimensions. The support has a linkage that can be manipulated in both the horizontal plane and the vertical plane. The device is easily assembled and disassembled by means of threaded elements that fabricate the linkage.

Abstract: Devices are disclosed which can make writing and other tasks easier for people with physically impaired hands, such as people suffering from severe rheumatoid arthritis. These devices include a glove with a mounting attachment, for holding the base of a pen, pencil, or other device, affixed to the glove in the vicinity of the palm region. The mounting attachment on the glove is designed to securely hold the base of a device such as a pen or pencil, toothbrush, key holder, kitchen utensil, etc. The base of each insertable device is provided with a fitting designed for insertion and removal by someone with impaired hands, preferably without requiring assistance by another person. Several accommodating devices can be provided with the glove, as part of a complete set. Some of these devices will contain fixed, non-rotating bases, for use with devices such as pencils or pens; others will use bases that can rotate freely about a point or a single axle, or with various other types of constraints.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of manipulation aids, in particular, to a manipulation aid or pointing stick that attaches to a user's hand for pressing keys on a keyboard, turning pages or the like. In one embodiment of the inventions, a strap is adapted to engage the hand of a user. A cone, having a base and an apex, is mounted at its base to the strap. An actuator is mounted to the apex of the cone. The actuator includes a tip which can be seen by the user and can be used to press keys of a keyboard, turn pages of a book, etc. The manipulation aid is designed to collapse under a predetermined load to prevent unacceptably high forces from being delivered to the user's hand.

Abstract: A Prosthetic Utensil and Tool Holding Device for the manually disabled, having an elongated rigid adjustable band that is disposed around a disabled hand. A first hook and loop gripping band is further fixed to the clasp bar in a suitable manner wherein an eating utensil or tool is suitably fixed to a prehensile tool hook and a hook and loop gripping pad is suitably fixed to the first hook and loop gripping pad thereby allowing a manually disabled person to use an eating utensil or tool.

Abstract: A human forearm prosthesis is disclosed which has attached thereto a device comprising a housing, a knife blade suitable for cutting food, a projection on the knife blade for restraining the travel of the knife blade into the housing when it is desired to retract the knife blade into the housing for storage thereof, and out of the housing when it is desired to extend the knife blade for use of the knife blade for cutting food. Preferably, the knife blade moves into and out of the housing by force of gravity. The travel of the knife blade is restrained by a guide slot which extends substantially the length of the housing and a projection located on or near the back end of the knife blade, which projection travels in the guide slot. The device of the invention has a spring operated knife blade release mechanism that blocks the knife blade from passing out of the housing when it is desired to restrain the blade in retracted position.

Abstract: A terminal device is described which is attachable to the end of a prosthesis on an arm and there serves as an attachment site for a variety of tools or implements designed to mate with the terminal device. The terminal device comprises a first main part in operable and pivotal combination with a second main part, the combined main parts providing on one end a device for attaching to the end of an arm prosthesis, and on the other a device for attaching a variety of implements, the said device for implement attachment providing articulation capabilities that allow positioning of the implements in a variety of positions relative to the position of the arm prosthesis.

Abstract: A prosthetic limb (10) for a below-the-elbow amputee is constructed having a removable effector (16) removably mounted in a mount (18) having semicircular bands (20) set by "hand lapped" construction in sides of a body (12) near a closed end (22) thereof. The effector (16) is offset from the body (12) and is provided with supports (60, 62), each having a C-shaped slot (64, 66) for receiving a horizontally oriented bar, such as that on a chainsaw. A pair of semi-circular gripping members (68, 70) are pivotally mounted by pins (72, 74) near a closed end of the slots (64, 66) and are biased closed by a C-shaped leaf spring (90) disposed about an outer periphery of the members (68, 70).