Patents by Inventor William P. Pennybacker

William P. Pennybacker has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 5637110
    Abstract: A handpowered, low cost, disposable laparoscopic surgical tool has a proximal hand engageable unit, an elongate extension unit and a distal jaw unit. Pulling a trigger of the hand engageable unit forwards an extension rod in the extension unit to pivot the jaws together. In one embodiment of the invention, the handle unit is primarily of molded plastic material for low cost and disposability. In an embodiment, electrocautery contact with the extension unit is through a bendable spring element. In an embodiment specially shaped links and connected jaw portions improve strength and control in opening and closing the jaws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: William P. Pennybacker, Charles L. Nelson, Kenneth H. Misser