Meta Platforms, Inc.
Lamellar covers for use with articulating joints

Abstract:

A lamellar cover for use with an articulating joint is disclosed. The cover includes an annular retainer positionable adjacent a first portion of the articulating joint. A retainer fitting is positionable adjacent a second portion of the articulating joint that is moveable with respect to the first portion. A plurality of overlapping lamellar rings are supported between the annular retainer and the retainer fitting. Each lamellar ring includes a circular support ring, such as an o-ring, and a plurality of lamellas coupled to the circular support ring. One or more connectors extend between adjacent lamellar rings. Each of the plurality of overlapping lamellar rings has a ring diameter. One or more of the ring diameters decrease in size with respect to each other from the annular retainer to the retainer fitting thereby forming a tapered cover around the articulating joint.