WO2019152949A1

WO2019152949A1 - Cutting guide and immobilization device

Info

Publication number: WO2019152949A1
Application number: PCT/US2019/016547
Authority: WO
Inventors: Brandon T. BARRETT
Original assignee: Barrett Brandon T
Priority date: 2018-02-02
Filing date: 2019-02-04
Publication date: 2019-08-08

Abstract

A cutting guide and immobilization device that provides means to secure an object in place for any purpose and an access channel for a saw blade or other cutting instrument to accurate cuts on the object. An embodiment allows the device to secure objects of varying sizes by a tightening apparatus and translational moved along a fixed structure.

Description

CUTTING GUIDE AND IMMOBIUIZATION DEVICE

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a cutting guide and immobilization device.

Specifically, the disclosure relates to a cutting guide and immobilization device that may be tightened to secure objects having different shapes or sizes.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Cutting guides and immobilization devices may be used to secure objects for immobilization or cutting or other purposes.

SUMMARY

[0003] In an embodiment, a cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure comprises a first gripping apparatus wherein the first gripping apparatus comprises a first gripping arm; a second gripping arm; a first gripping surface; and wherein the first gripping arm and the second gripping arm define a blade-access channel between a first cutting guide of the first gripping arm and a second cutting guide of the second gripping arm.

[0004] In an embodiment, the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure may further comprise a second gripping apparatus comprising a second gripping surface; and wherein a fixed end of the first gripping apparatus and a fixed end of the second gripping apparatus are fastened to a fixed-end structure and a maneuverable end of the first gripping apparatus and a maneuverable end of the second gripping apparatus are fastened to a tightening apparatus wherein the first gripping surface faces the second gripping surface and the tightening apparatus is configured to tension the maneuverable ends of the first and second gripping apparatuses towards each other.

[0005] In an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure the first and second gripping surfaces may be configured to grip an object contacted by the first and second gripping surfaces.

[0006] In embodiments of cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, a first area of the first gripping surface is disposed on the first gripping arm and a second area of the first gripping surface is disposed on the second gripping arm. [0007] In an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the tightening apparatus comprises a tensioning belt fastened to the maneuverable end of the first gripping apparatus and a ratcheting clip fastened to the maneuverable end of the second gripping apparatus wherein the tensioning belt is configured to be pulled through the ratcheting clip to tension the maneuverable ends of the first and second gripping apparatuses towards each other.

[0008] In an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the ratcheting clip is configured to lock the tensioning belt in place to maintain a tension between the maneuverable ends of the first and second gripping apparatuses.

[0009] In an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the fixed-end structure maintains a distance between the fixed ends of the first and second gripping apparatuses.

[00010] In an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the fixed end of at least one of the first gripping apparatus and the second gripping apparatus is configured to be translated to different locations on the fixed-end structure to modify the distance between the fixed ends of the first and second gripping apparatuses.

[00011] In an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the second gripping apparatus further comprises a third gripping arm; a fourth gripping arm; and wherein the third gripping arm and the fourth gripping arm define a blade- access channel between a third cutting guide of the third gripping arm and a fourth cutting guide of the fourth gripping arm.

[00012] In an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, a third area of the second gripping surface is disposed on the third gripping arm and a fourth area of the second gripping surface is disposed on the fourth gripping arm.

[00013] In an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the fixed-end structure comprises a first bar, a first end of the first bar being secured in a first-bar holder disposed on the first gripping arm, and a second bar, a first end of the second bar being secured in a second-bar holder disposed on the second gripping arm, wherein the third gripping arm further comprises a first bar clamp configured to receive a second end of the first bar through the first bar clamp and the fourth gripping arm further comprises a second bar clamp configured to receive a second end of the second bar through the second-bar clamp. [00014] In an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the first and second bar clamps are configured to secure the third and fourth gripping arms to the first and second bars so the fixed-end structure maintains a distance between the fixed ends of the first and second gripping apparatuses when the first and second bar clamps are locked.

[00015] In an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the fixed end of the second gripping apparatus is configured to be translated in either direction along the first and second bars when the first and second bar clamps are unlocked.

[00016] In an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the first bar and second bar further comprise a plurality of notches configured to cooperate with the first and second bar clamps to secure the third and fourth gripping arms to the first and second bars.

[00017] In an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, at least one of the first and second bar clamps comprises a butterfly clamp.

[00018] In an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the butterfly clamp is biased into a locked position and unlocked by compressing a first arm of the butterfly clamp and a second arm of the butterfly clamp towards each other.

[00019] In an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the blade-access channel is configured to provide a blade access to medial locations between the first and second gripping apparatuses from locations lateral to the first gripping apparatus.

[00020] In an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, at least one fastening spacer separates the first gripping arm from the second gripping arm to define the blade-access channel of the first gripping apparatus.

[00021] In an embodiment, the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure comprises a first gripping apparatus comprising: a first gripping arm comprising: a fixed end; a maneuverable end; and a first gripping surface. The first gripping apparatus further comprising a second gripping arm comprising: a fixed end; a maneuverable end; and a second gripping surface wherein the maneuverable end of the first gripping arm is connected to the maneuverable end of the second gripping arm; and wherein the first gripping arm and the second gripping arm define a blade-access channel between a first cutting guide of the first gripping arm and a second cutting guide of the second gripping arm. The cutting guide and immobilization device of the embodiment further comprises a second gripping apparatus comprising: a third gripping arm comprising; a fixed end; a maneuverable end; and a third gripping surface; a fourth gripping arm comprising: a fixed end; a maneuverable end; and a fourth gripping surface wherein the maneuverable end of the third gripping arm is connected to the maneuverable end of the fourth gripping arm; and wherein the third gripping arm and the fourth gripping arm define a blade- access channel between a third cutting guide of the third gripping arm and a fourth cutting guide of the fourth gripping arm. And, in the embodiment, the fixed ends of the first gripping apparatus and the fixed ends of the second gripping apparatus are fastened to a fixed-end structure and the maneuverable ends of the first gripping apparatus and the maneuverable ends of the second gripping apparatus are fastened to a tightening apparatus wherein the first gripping surface and the second gripping surface face the third gripping surface and the fourth gripping surface and the tightening apparatus is configured to tension the maneuverable ends of the first and second gripping apparatuses towards each other.

[00022] In an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the maneuverable ends of the first gripping apparatus are connected by a first fastening spacer that maintains a distance between the first gripping arm and the second gripping arm to define the blade-access channel between the first cutting guide and the second cutting guide and wherein the maneuverable ends of the second gripping apparatus are connected by a second fastening spacer that maintains a distance between the third gripping arm and the fourth gripping arm to define the blade-access channel between the third cutting guide and the fourth cutting guide.

[00023] In an embodiment of a cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the tightening apparatus comprises a tensioning belt fastened to the first fastening spacer and a ratcheting clip fastened to the second fastening spacer wherein the tensioning belt is configured to be pulled through the ratcheting clip to tension the maneuverable ends of the first and second gripping apparatuses towards each other.

[00024] In an embodiment of a cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the fixed-end structure comprises a first bar, a first end of the first bar being secured in a first bar holder disposed on the first gripping arm, and a second bar, a first end of the second bar being secured in a second bar holder disposed on the second gripping arm, wherein the third gripping arm further comprises a first bar clamp configured to receive a second end of the first bar through the first bar clamp and the fourth gripping arm further comprises a second bar clamp configured to receive a second end of the second bar through the second bar clamp.

[00025] In an embodiment of a cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the first and second bar clamps are configured to secure the third and fourth gripping arms to the first and second bars so the fixed-end structure maintains a distance between the fixed ends of the first and third gripping arms and the fixed ends of the second and fourth gripping arms when the first bar clamp and the second bar clamp are locked.

[00026] In an embodiment of a cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the fixed ends of the second gripping apparatus are configured to be translated in either direction along the first second bars when the first and second bar clamps are unlocked.

[00027] In an embodiment of a cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the first bar and second bar further comprise a plurality of notches configured to cooperate with the first and second bar clamps to secure the fixed end of the third and fourth gripping arms to the first and second bars.

[00028] In an embodiment of a cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the at least one of the first and second bar clamps comprises a butterfly clamp.

[00029] In an embodiment of a cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the butterfly clamp is biased into a locked position and unlocked by compressing a first arm of the butterfly clamp and a second arm of the butterfly clamp towards each other.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00030] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a cutting guide and immobilization device in accordance with the principles of this disclosure;

[00031] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the interior of a first gripping apparatus of an embodiment of a cutting guide and immobilization device in accordance with the principles of this disclosure;

[00032] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a cutting guide and immobilization device in accordance with the principles of this disclosure gripping an object;

[00033] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the fixed-end structure of an embodiment of a cutting guide and immobilization device in accordance with the principles of this disclosure; [00034] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the interior of a first gripping apparatus of an embodiment of a cutting guide and immobilization device in accordance with the principles of this disclosure and further illustrating an embodiment of a fastening spacer;

[00035] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the interior of a second gripping apparatus of an embodiment of a cutting guide and immobilization device in accordance with the principles of this disclosure further illustrating an embodiment of a fastening spacer;

[00036] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the fixed-end structure of an embodiment of a cutting guide and immobilization device in accordance with the principles of this disclosure;

[00037] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a butterfly clamp of an embodiment of a cutting guide and immobilization device in accordance with the principles of this disclosure;

[00038] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the butterfly clamp of FIG. 8;

[00039] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a tightening apparatus of an embodiment of a cutting guide and immobilization device in accordance with the principles of this disclosure;

[00040] FIGS. 11, 12 and 13 show a cutting guide and immobilization device in accordance with the principles of this disclosure in various positions;

[00041] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an exploded view of an embodiment of a cutting guide and immobilization device in accordance with the principles of this disclosure;

[00042] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of the embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device depicted in FIG. 14;

[00043] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an interior view of a first gripping apparatus of a cutting guide and immobilization device in accordance with the principles of this disclosure; and [00044] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating another perspective of a first gripping apparatus of a cutting guide and immobilization device in accordance with the principles of this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00045] There is a growing need for versatile cutting guides and immobilization devices to help workers, first-responders, and do-it-yourself hobbyists execute accurate cuts in a variety of environments on objects of varying sizes, shapes, and materials. Unlike other instruments, embodiments of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure may be used on any material, any shape, secure secondary objects, allow quick setup and release, offer multiple cutting guide locations, and self-adjust to an object’s diameter. Embodiments of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure pair those advantages with an ability to facilitate straight cuts of wood, metal, synthetic or composite material, adjust to different sizes of work- pieces, and attach in a manner that does not require secondary anchoring either to, or of, the intended work-piece. Some of these benefits are allowed at least by an adjustable geometry, which allows immobilization of objects that are round, rectangular, multi-sided or irregular. Some embodiments may also comprise a gripping mechanism that provides a secure hold at all points of contact. And, some embodiments may comprise a tightening mechanism that allows extremely fast securement of objects have many different shapes and sizes. Embodiments of this disclosure can hold an object in place, and provide a means to execute a straight cut. Embodiments of this device may also be configured for portability so they can be carried form location to location as needed.

[00046] FIG. 1 depicts an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure. Some embodiments, like the one depicted in FIG. 1, comprise a first gripping apparatus 157 comprising a first gripping arm 158; a second gripping arm 160; and a first gripping surface 159. As depicted in FIG. 2, in some embodiments, the first gripping arm 158 and the second gripping arm 160 define a blade-access channel between a first cutting guide 174 of the first gripping arm 158 and a second cutting guide 176 of the second gripping arm 176. Returning to FIG. 1, some embodiments of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure further comprise a second gripping apparatus 161 comprising a second gripping surface 163. In some embodiments, a fixed end 57 of the first gripping apparatus 157 and a fixed end 61 of the second gripping apparatus 161 are fastened to a fixed-end structure 165, and a maneuverable end of the first gripping apparatus 157, and a maneuverable end 257 of the second gripping apparatus 161 are fastened to a tightening apparatus 139 wherein the first gripping surface 159 faces the second gripping surface 163 and the tightening apparatus 139 is configured to tension the maneuverable ends 257, 261 of the first 157 and second 161 gripping apparatuses towards each other.

[00047] As will be appreciated, the first gripping arm 158 and the second gripping arm

160 may be formed of different materials in different embodiments. A variety of different materials may be used including but not limited to various metals, alloys, plastics, or composites. Different materials may be utilized in embodiments preferred for different kinds of applications. For example, light-weight embodiments may be suitable for jobs involving small cuts, or cuts on relatively easily-cut materials. And, the gripping arms of such embodiments may be formed from a light weight material. The length, width, and height of the gripping arms may also vary from embodiment to embodiment. Some embodiments may also allow gripping arms to be added and removed to extend the size of the cutting guide and immobilization device.

[00048] It will be also be appreciated, that in embodiments, the first 158 and second gripping arms 160 may be formed from two discrete parts. However, in some embodiments, gripping arms may be formed from a single part that has been separated. In some embodiments, the first gripping arm 158 may be attached to a first gripping arm frame, and the second gripping arm 160 may be attached to a second gripping arm frame. Ah the different embodiments of the gripping arms may be combined with any of the embodiments of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure unless specifically stated otherwise.

[00049] In some embodiments, the blade-access channel 175 (in FIG. 2) is configured to provide a blade access to medial locations between the first 157 and second 161 gripping apparatuses from locations lateral to the first gripping apparatus. This allows a blade to execute a straight cut on an object 199 gripped between the first 157 and second 161 gripping apparatuses, as depicted in FIG. 3. The first cutting guide 174 and second cutting guide 176 help a user execute a cut in a straight line. Some embodiments of the gripping arms may also comprise additional cutting guides to define additional blade-access channels to allow parallel cuts or channels of differing widths. Some embodiments may also comprise cutting guides on exterior faces of the gripping arms to provide guides on exterior surface of the gripping arms. It will also be appreciated that the width of the blade-access channel 175 may vary from embodiment to embodiment. Blade-access channels of different widths may provide access to different types of blades, saws, grinder cut off wheels, and other cutting instruments. In some embodiments, the blade-access channel may be 0.090 inches wide. In some embodiments, the blade-access channel may be 0.127 inches wide. Other embodiments may have blade-access channels that are different widths. And, still other embodiments may allow blade access channels with a width that can be varied. In some embodiments, connections between gripping arms of the first and second gripping apparatus occur at one side or another of the gripping apparatus to allow longer blade- access channels 175 or complete access to an object except at the connection points. For example, in some embodiments the gripping arms of the first gripping apparatuses may not be connected to each other at the fixed end of the first gripping apparatus. And, in some embodiments, the gripping arms of the second gripping apparatuses may not be connected to each other at the fixed end of the first gripping apparatus

[00050] As shown in FIG. 2, in some embodiments, at least one fastening spacer 154 separates the first gripping arm 158 from the second gripping arm 160 to define the blade-access channel 175 of the first gripping apparatus. The at least one fastening spacer 154 is disposed on the maneuverable end 257 of the first gripping apparatus 157. But, it will be appreciated that a fastening spacer may be disposed elsewhere on the first gripping apparatus in other embodiments. For example, a spacer, or fastening spacer may be disposed on the fixed end 57 of the first gripping apparatus 157. And, in some embodiments, a fastening spacer may be disposed of both the fixed end 57 and the maneuverable end 257 of the first gripping apparatus 157.

[00051] FIG. 5 depicts an embodiment of the fastening spacer 154 with a center portion passing between the first cutting guide 174 and the second cutting guide 176 while the outer legs of the“M” shape are between the first cutting guide 174 of a first gripping arm 158 and the second cutting guide 176 of a second gripping arm 160. As will be appreciated, different embodiments may utilize different types of fastening spacers known in the art. And, unless specifically denoted otherwise, all the different embodiments of the fastening spacers may be combined with any of the embodiments of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure.

[00052] Returning to FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, the first 159 and second gripping surfaces 163 are configured to grip an object 199 contacted by the first and second gripping surfaces. It will be appreciated that the gripping surfaces 159, 163 may comprise a variety of different forms in different embodiments. Some embodiments may be preferred for work with specific materials and gripping surfaces may be selected 159, 163 for those materials. Other gripping surfaces may be preferred for different types of working environments. For example, some embodiments of the gripping surfaces may be preferable for dry or wet environments. Gripping surfaces may comprise different patterns or material. And, in some embodiments, the first gripping surface 159 may comprise a different embodiment than the second gripping surface 163. As shown in FIG. 5, in some embodiments a first area 182 of the first gripping surface 159 is disposed on the first gripping arm 158, and a second area 184 of the first gripping surface 159 is disposed on the second gripping arm 160. It should also be appreciated that the gripping arms 158, 160 may be configured in many different shapes. As depicted in FIG. 3, the griping surface 159 is disposed on an interior surface of the gripping arms 158, 160 comprising a semi-circle shape. However, gripping arms 158, 160 may comprise different shapes. Different shapes may be preferred for different application.

[00053] In some embodiments, the second gripping apparatus 161 further comprises a third gripping arm 162 and a fourth gripping arm 164 wherein the third gripping arm 162 and the fourth gripping arm 164 define a blade-access channel 177 between a third cutting guide 178 of the third gripping arm 162 and a fourth cutting guide 180 of the fourth gripping arm 164. As will be appreciated, the third gripping arm 162 and the fourth gripping arm 164 may comprise any embodiment of the gripping arms described with reference to the first gripping apparatus as described elsewhere in this specification at least with reference to FIGS. 1-5. Similarly, the blade-access channel 177, the third cutting guide 178, and the fourth cutting guide 180 may comprise any of the embodiments described with reference to the first gripping apparatus at least including with reference to FIGS. 1-5.

[00054] Continuing with FIG. 6, in some embodiments a third area 188 of the second gripping surface 163 is disposed on the third gripping arm 162 and a fourth area 190 of the second gripping surface 163 is disposed on the fourth gripping arm 164. As can be appreciated, the gripping surface 163 may take any form of the gripping surface 159 described with reference to the first gripping apparatus 157. In some embodiments, the second gripping apparatus 157 may not comprise a blade-access channel, while in other embodiments, it may. As will be appreciated, any embodiment of the second gripping apparatus 161 may be combined with any of the embodiments of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure unless specifically stated otherwise.

[00055] Returning again to FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the fixed-end structure 165 maintains a distance between the fixed ends 57, 61 of the first 157 and second 161 gripping apparatuses. This allows the fixed ends 57, 61 to be secured, or anchored in place to provide stability for any cutting or immobilization needs. In some embodiments, the fixed end of at least one of the first gripping apparatus 157 and the second gripping apparatus 161 is configured to be translated to different locations on the fixed-end structure 165 to modify the distance between the fixed ends 57, 61 of the first and second gripping apparatuses 157, 161. This allows the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure to be adjusted to allow objects of varying sizes to be inserted into the cutting guide and immobilization device for securement. In some embodiments, both of the fixed ends 57, 61 may be translated along the fixed-end structure 165. However, in other embodiments only one of the fixed ends of either the first gripping apparatus 157 or the second gripping apparatus 161 may be translated. In embodiments, one or both fixed ends 57, 61 may be translated in directions up and down the fixed end structure. As will be appreciated the fixed end structure 165 may comprise different embodiments. The fixed end structure 165 may be formed of many varieties of materials, and comprise many different configurations to maintain a distance between fixed ends 57, 61 and, in some embodiments, allow translation to different locations on the fixed-end structure.

[00056] In some embodiments, like the one depicted in FIG. 1 and FIG. 7, the fixed-end structure 165 comprises a first bar 166, a first end of the first bar 166 being secured in a first-bar holder 198 disposed on the first gripping arm 158, and a second bar 168, a first end of the second bar 168 being secured in a second-bar holder 200 disposed on the second gripping arm 160. In some embodiments, the third gripping arm 162 further comprises a first bar clamp 170 configured to receive a second end of the first bar 166 through the first bar clamp 170. And, as shown in FIG. 4, the fourth gripping arm, in some embodiments, further comprises a second bar clamp 172 configured to receive a second end of the second bar 168 through the second-bar clamp 172. In some embodiments, the first 170 and second 172 bar clamps are configured to secure the third 162 and fourth 164 gripping arms to the first 166 and second bars 168 so the fixed-end structure 165 maintains a distance 179 between the fixed ends 57, 61 of the first 157 and second 161 gripping apparatuses when the first 170 and second 172 bar clamps are locked.

[00057] As will be appreciated, the first and second bars may be formed of different materials in different embodiments. Different materials may be appropriate for different applications. The first and second bars may comprise metals, alloys, plastics or composites, or a variety of other materials known in the art. In some embodiments, the fixed-end structure may comprise only a single bar wherein the fixed ends of both gripping apparatuses are attached to the single bar. In some embodiments, as depicted clearly at least in in FIG. 4, the first bar 166 and second bar 168 further comprise a plurality of notches 169 configured to cooperate with the first 170 and second 172 bar clamps to secure the third 164 and fourth 166 gripping arms to the firstl66 and second 168 bars. In some embodiments, the first 170 and second bar clamps 172 may be fastened to the third 164 and fourth 166 gripping arms by any of the many means known in the art including, but not limited to screws and rivets. And, the notches 169 may be configured to receive a portion of the first 170 and second 172 bar clamps when the bar clamps 170 and 172 are locked. This provides a very stable lock that helps provide a tight fit and maintain the distance between the fixed ends of the first and second gripping apparatuses when the bar clamps are locked to allow work pieces to be cut or immobilized. Embodiments of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure also allow the fixed end of 61 of the second gripping apparatus 161 to be translated up and down along the first 166 and second bar 168. This can be achieved in some embodiments by unlocking the first 170 and second 172 bar clamps and simply sliding the fixed end 61 in the desired direction. And, the first 170 and second 172 bar clamps may be locked when the desired position is reached. This allows embodiments of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure to adjust quickly and easily to different sizes or shapes of work pieces. Some embodiments may further comprises additional bar clamps to allow the fixed end 57 of the first gripping apparatus 157 to be locked in place and be translated along the first and second bar 166, 168 when the bar clamps are unlocked.

[00058] The first 198 and second bar 200 holders may be formed of different materials or comprise different configurations in different embodiments. And, in embodiments wherein the fixed-end structure comprises a single bar, the fixed-end structure may only comprise a single bar holder. The first 198 and second 200 bar holder may be fastened to the first 158 and second arm 160 by any means known in the art including but not limited to rivets, or screws.

[00059] In embodiments, the fixed end 61 of the second gripping apparatus 161 is configured to be translated in either direction along the first and second bars when the first 170 and second 172 bar clamps are unlocked.

[00060] The first 170 and second 172 bar clamps may comprise many different types of clamps in different embodiments. In some embodiments, one or both of the first 170 and second bar clamps 172 may comprise butterfly clamps as depicted in FIGS. 8 and 9. The butterfly clamp 170 depicted in FIG. 8 comprises a first arm 173 A and a second arm 173B. The butterfly clamp 170 is biased into a locked position and unlocked by compressing the first arm 173A of the butterfly clamp and a second arm 173B of the butterfly clamp towards each other. So, to unlock the clamp 170 the arms 173A, 173B may merely be squeezed together to allow the clamp to slide in either direction along the bar 166. In some embodiments, the butterfly clamp 170 may cooperate with notches 169 on a bar to achieve a secure hold. FIG. 9 illustrates an exploded view of a butterfly clamp. As will be appreciated, a variety of means may be used to bias the butterfly clamp into a locked position. In some embodiments like the one depicted in FIG. 9 a spring 171 is used to bias the clamp 170. However, it will be appreciated that other embodiments may comprise other means to bias the clamp. In some embodiments the butterfly clamp 170 may comprise jaws that open when the arms 173A and 173B are opened to allow the clamp 170 to be translated. In embodiments, the jaws are configured to fit in notches 169 to provide a secure hold. In other embodiments, compressing the arms 173A, and 173 translates a male portion of the butterfly clamp 170 in a perpendicular direction with respect to a longitudinal axis of the bar 166. When locked the biasing element 171 may hold the male portion into the notches to secure the clamp 170 to the bar 166 and when compressed the male portion is pressured away from notch to allow the clamp freedom to be translated longitudinally along the bar 166 in either direction. FIGS. 8 and 9 are provided for demonstrative purposes only and do not limit the embodiments of this disclosure. And, unless stated otherwise, all the different embodiments of the fixed-end structure, all the different embodiments of the bars, bar holders, bar clamps, and butterfly clamps may be combined with all the other embodiments of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure.

[00061] Referring again to FIG. 1, in some embodiments, when fixed ends of the first 159 and second 161 gripping apparatuses are secured to the fixed-end structure 165 a tightening mechanism 139 may be utilized to tension the maneuverable ends 57, 61 of the first and second gripping apparatuses 157, 161 towards each other. This allows embodiments of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure to tighten the first and second gripping apparatuses 157, 161 around a work piece to provide a firm, stable grip. As will be appreciated, and as has been described elsewhere, this grip can be enhanced by gripping surfaces 159 and 163.

[00062] Different tightening apparatuses may be utilized in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the tightening apparatus may be manually tightened. In some embodiments, the tightening apparatus may be tightened with the help of a powered instrument. In some embodiments, the tightening apparatus may be tightened either manually or by a powered instrument. A wide variety of tightening methods and tools are known in the art, and it will be appreciated that the different embodiments of the tightening apparatus may utilize one or more of the known methods and tools.

[00063] In some embodiments, like depicted at least in FIG. 1, the tightening apparatus

139 comprises a tensioning belt 140. As shown in FIG. 2, the tensioning belt 140 may be fastened to the maneuverable end 257 of the first gripping apparatus 157. In some embodiments, the tensioning belt 140 may be fastened to the maneuverable end 257 by the fastening spacer 154. As will be appreciated, the tensioning belt 140 may be fastened to the maneuverable end 257 by many varieties of ways, in different embodiments, by many devices including but not limited to screw or rivets. In some embodiments a rivet may pass through the first and second gripping arms 158, 160 and the fastening spacer to join them together and with the tensioning belt 140.

[00064] As shown in FIG. 5, a screw and nut 150 may be utilized to fasten the tensioning belt 140 to the maneuverable end 257 of the first gripping apparatus 157 and the first gripping arm 158 and the second gripping arm 160 by the fastening spacer 154. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6, the tightening apparatus may further comprise a ratcheting clip 142 fastened to the maneuverable end 261 of the second gripping apparatus 161 wherein the tensioning belt 140 is configured to be pulled through the ratcheting clip 142 to tension the maneuverable ends 257, 261 of the first and second gripping apparatuses 257, 261 towards each other. As will be appreciated, the ratcheting clip belt 142 may be fastened to the maneuverable end 261 of the second gripping apparatus 161 in many varieties of ways, in different embodiments, by many devices including but not limited to screw or rivets.

[00065] As shown in FIG. 6 the ratcheting clip 142 may be fastened to the maneuverable end 261 of the second gripping apparatus by a fastening spacer 156 that also fastens third 162 and fourth 164 gripping arms together. In some embodiments a rivet may pass through the third and fourth gripping arms 162, 164 and the fastening spacer 156 to join them together, and with the ratcheting clip 142. Fastening spacers may be held in place by screws, rivets or other fastening instruments. It will be appreciated, that the tensioning belt 140 and ratcheting clip 142 may be formed of a variety of materials and in a variety of sizes. Different embodiments of the tensioning belt 140 and ratcheting clip 142 may be preferable for different applications. And, some embodiments may allow different embodiments of the tightening apparatus 139 to removed and replaced with other embodiments of the tightening apparatus depending on the application. It will also be appreciated that the positions of the ratcheting clip 142 and tensioning belt 140 may be swapped in some embodiments wherein the ratcheting clip 142 is fastened to the first gripping apparatus 157 and the tensioning belt 140 is fastened to the second gripping apparatus 161. FIG. 10 shows an enlarged view of the ratcheting clip 142 and tensioning belt 140 of an embodiment of the tightening apparatus 139.

[00066] In some embodiments, the ratcheting clip 142 may be configured to lock the tensioning belt 140 in place to maintain a tension between the maneuverable ends 257, 261 of the first and second gripping apparatuses 157, 161. FIG. 3 illustrates an example of the tightening apparatus 139 wherein the tensioning belt 140 is tightened to tension the maneuverable ends 257, 261 of the first and second gripping apparatuses 157, 161 towards each to achieve a secure hold on an object 199 between the first and second gripping apparatuses 157, 161. This secures the object 199 in place so a cut can be made through a blade access channel 177 (in FIG. 4), which will ensure a straight cut on the object. 199.

[00067] FIGS. 11, 12, and 13 depict an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure in some of many possible configurations. In FIG. 11, the tensioning belt 140 is unhitched from the ratcheting clip 142 so the second gripping arm 161 is an open position to allow the first and second gripping apparatuses 157, 161 to be positioned on or around a workpiece. FIG. 12 shows the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure in a closed position demonstrating its ability to be adjusted to a triangular shape in order to close around an irregularly or triangular shaped work-piece. In this configuration, the maneuverable ends 257, 261 are tensioned together and the fixed-end structure 165 forms the base of a triangular shape. The first and second gripping apparatuses 157, 161 can then secure an object with a triangular geometry. As will be appreciated, other configurations may also allow work pieces with other geometries to be securely held. FIG. 13 shows the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure configured to secure an object with a small diameter between the first 157 and second 161 gripping apparatuses. The tightening mechanism 139 also allows additional tightening by tensioning the maneuverable ends 257, 261 together. FIG. 14 depicts an exploded view of an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure comprising a first gripping apparatus 157. In some embodiments, the first gripping apparatus 157 comprises a first gripping arm 158 that comprises a fixed end 58; a maneuverable end 258; and a first gripping surface 202. In some embodiments, the first gripping apparatus 157 further comprises a second gripping arm 160 comprising a fixed end 60; a maneuverable end 260; and a second gripping surface (not shown). In some embodiments, the fixed end 58 of the first gripping arm 158 is connected to the fixed end 60 of the second gripping arm 160 and the maneuverable 258 end of the first gripping arm 158 is connected to the maneuverable 260 end of the second gripping arm 160 and wherein the first gripping arm 158 and the second gripping arm 160 define a blade-access channel between a first cutting guide of the first gripping arm and a second cutting guide of the second gripping arm. In some embodiments, the fixed end 58 of the first gripping arm 158 is not connected to the fixed end 60 of the second gripping arm 160. The cutting guides and blade-access channels are not labeled in FIG. 14, but they may comprise any embodiment of the cutting guides and blade-access channels of this disclosure referenced elsewhere including at least FIGS 1 through 7.

[00068] Some embodiments of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, like the one depicted in FIG. 14, comprise a second gripping apparatus 161. In embodiments, the second gripping apparatus 161 comprises a third gripping arm 162 comprising a fixed end 62; a maneuverable end 262; and a third gripping surface 204. The second gripping apparatus 161 may also comprise, in some embodiments, a fourth gripping arm 164 comprising a fixed end 64; a maneuverable end 264; and a fourth gripping surface 206 wherein the fixed end 62 of the third gripping arm 162 is connected to the fixed end 64 of the fourth gripping arm 164 and the maneuverable end 262 of the third gripping arm 162 is connected to the maneuverable end 264 of the fourth gripping arm 164. In some embodiments the fixed end 62 of the third gripping arm 162 is not connected to the fixed end 64 of the fourth gripping arm 164. And, in some embodiments, the third gripping arm 162 and the fourth gripping arm 164 define a blade- access channel between a third cutting guide of the third gripping arm and a fourth cutting guide of the fourth gripping arm. The cutting guides and blade-access channels are not labeled in FIG. 14, but they may comprise any embodiment of the cutting guides and blade-access channels of this disclosure referenced elsewhere including at least FIGS 1 through 7.

[00069] The fixed ends 58, 60 of the first gripping apparatus 157 and the fixed ends 62, 64 of the second gripping apparatus 161 may be fastened to a fixed-end structure 165, in some embodiments, and the maneuverable ends 258, 260 of the first gripping apparatus 157 and the maneuverable ends 262, 264 of the second gripping apparatus 161 may be fastened to a tightening apparatus 139 wherein the first gripping surface 202 and the second gripping surface face (not shown) the third gripping surface 204 and the fourth gripping surface 206. In some embodiments, the tightening apparatus 139 is configured to tension the maneuverable ends 258, 260, 262, 264 of the first and second gripping apparatuses 157, 161 towards each other. [00070] In some embodiments, the maneuverable ends 258, 268 of the first gripping apparatus 157 are connected by a first fastening spacer 154 that maintains a distance between the first gripping arm 158 and the second gripping arm 160 to define the blade-access channel between the first cutting guide and the second cutting guide and wherein the maneuverable ends 260, 262 of the second gripping apparatus 161 are connected by a second fastening spacer 156 that maintains a distance between the third gripping arm 162 and the fourth gripping arm 164 to define the blade-access channel between the third cutting guide and the fourth cutting guide.

[00071] In some embodiments, like the one depicted in FIG. 14, the tightening apparatus comprises 139 a tensioning belt 140 fastened to the first fastening spacer 154 and a ratcheting clip fastened to the second fastening 156 spacer wherein the tensioning belt 140 is configured to be pulled through the ratcheting clip 142 to tension the maneuverable ends 258, 260, 262, 264 of the first and second gripping apparatuses 157, 161 towards each other.

[00072] In some embodiments, the fixed-end structure 165 comprises a first bar 166, a first end 66 of the first bar 166 being secured in a first bar holder 198 disposed on the first gripping arm 158, and a second bar 168, a first end 68 of the second bar 168 being secured in a second bar holder disposed 200 on the second gripping arm 160. The third gripping arm 162 may further comprise a first bar clamp 170 configured to receive a second end 266 of the first bar 166 through the first bar clamp 17 and the fourth gripping arm 164 further comprises a second bar clamp 172 configured to receive a second end 268 of the second bar 168 through the second bar clamp 172.

[00073] In some embodiments, the first and second bar clamps 172, 174 are configured to secure the third 162 and fourth 164 gripping arms to the first and second bars 166, 168 so the fixed-end structure 165 maintains a distance between the fixed ends 58, 62 of the first and third gripping arms 166, 168 and the fixed ends 60, 64 of the second and fourth gripping arms 160, 164 when the first bar clamp 170 and the second bar clamp 174 are locked.

[00074] In some embodiments, the fixed ends 62, 64 of the second gripping apparatus 161 are configured to be translated in either direction along the first second bars 166, 168 when the first and second bar clamps 170, 172 are unlocked. In some embodiments the fixed ends 62 and 64 of the second gripping apparatus are not connected to each other. In some embodiments, fixed ends 58 and 60 of the first gripping apparatus are not connected to each other. In some such embodiments, this may extend the blade-access channel. In some embodiments this allows a blade to cut between first and second bars 166, 168. This also may allow the fixed ends 58, 60, 62, 64 some degree maneuverability. In some embodiments, there is no attachment between the first and second bars 166, 168, which allows some degree of maneuverability of the first and second gripping apparatuses 157, 161 or a blade used to cut an object.

[00075] In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 4, the first bar clamp 170 is held to the third gripping arm 162 by a rivet 144 that extents from one side to the opposite side of the third gripping arm 162 where the third cutting guide 178 is affixed to the rest of the third gripping arm 162. In the same way, in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4, the second bar clamp 172 is held to the fourth gripping arm 164 by a rivet 144 that extends from one side to the opposite side of the fourth gripping arm 164 where the fourth cutting guide 180 is affixed to the rest of the fourth gripping arm 164. FIG. 4 also illustrates an embodiment comprising a fourth frame 196 supporting the fourth gripping arm 164. In embodiments, each gripping arm may be supported by a frame. In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 1 a rivet 144 may be utilized to secure the first bar 166 in the first bar holder 198.

[00076] In some embodiments, the first bar and second bar 166, 168 further comprise a plurality of notches 169 configured to cooperate with the first and second bar clamps 170, 172 to secure the fixed end of the third and fourth gripping arms 162, 164 to the first and second bars 166, 168.

[00077] In some embodiments, the first and second bar clamps comprises a butterfly clamp. The butterfly clamp may take any form described elsewhere in this disclosure or known in the art including but not limited to embodiments discussed with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9. In some embodiments, the butterfly clamp is biased into a locked position and unlocked by compressing a first arm of the butterfly clamp and a second arm of the butterfly clamp towards each other. FIG. 15 depicts a non-exploded view of the embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure.

[00078] FIG. 16 depicts an embodiment of the first gripping apparatus wherein fastened together by rivets 144, and screws. It also provides a view of an embodiment wherein a first area 182 of the first gripping surface is disposed on the first gripping arm and a second area 184 of the first gripping surface is disposed on the second gripping arm. In some embodiments, as mentioned elsewhere in this disclosure, the gripping arms of embodiments of the first and second gripping apparatuses are fastened to a gripping frame. The first, second, third, and fourth gripping arms may be fastened to a first, second, third, or fourth frames. Rivets 144 may be used to fasten gripping arms to frames. In some embodiments, the gripping arms of the first and second gripping apparatuses are identical. In some embodiments the one or more of the gripping arms may differ from the other gripping arms.

[00079] FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective of an embodiment of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure showing a fastening spacer 154 and first and second cutting guides 174, 176. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 17, the tensioning belt 140 is fastened to the first gripping apparatus by a rivet 144. It will be appreciated that other fastening means may be utilized. FIGS. 1 - 17 of this disclosure are provided for illustrative purposes and do not limit the embodiments of this disclosure.

[00080] In some embodiments, the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure incorporates a leveling bubble into, or on, one more constituent parts. In some embodiments, the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure incorporates a laser into, or on, one more constituent parts. It will be appreciated, that a laser may help provide a frame of reference to ensure the cutting guide and immobilization device is level or in the desired orientation.

[00081] In some embodiments, the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure may allow the introduction of additional gripping arms, or gripping arm frames to expand the size of the of the cutting guide and immobilization device. In some embodiments of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure the tightening mechanism comprises a chain, cord, or other type of belt, or other type of ratcheting system, including motorized mechanisms to tighten the first and second gripping apparatuses. In some embodiments a ratcheting belt and ratcheting clip may be used in conjunction with one or more types of chain, cord, or other type of belt, or other type of ratcheting system, including motorized mechanisms to tighten the first and second gripping apparatuses.

[00082] In some embodiments the first and second bars may be any of a multitude of shapes including but not limited to cylindrical rods. Some embodiments may have fastening spacers 154, 156 of one size, and other embodiments may have fastening spacers 154,156 to define blade-access channels of varying widths.

[00083] In some embodiments, the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure may be fitted with, or accommodate, magnetic materials to improve placement, facilitate setup, secure, or be secured by, metallic or other magnetic objects, or for other uses.

[00084] In some embodiments, the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure may comprise parts or holes that allow the cutting guide and immobilization device to be secured to another object.

[00085] In some embodiments, the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure may be equipped with or otherwise accommodate a stand.

[00086] In embodiments either of the first gripping apparatus 157 or the second gripping apparatus 161 can be used as a single sided cutting guide. In some embodiments, the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure may be used as a clamp. Sometimes, such as in a vehicle rescue, objects have been bent during impact and if cut, may spring back towards their former orientation, or a material may otherwise may be under stress that when cut would result in a potentially sudden, dangerous or otherwise undesirable change in the work-piece. In such a case, if there is any other object within the inside diameter of the cutting guide and immobilization device of this disclosure, the work-piece to be cut could be secured to this nearby object with the cutting guide and immobilization device thus preventing the undesirable movement of the work-piece.

[00087] While various embodiments in accordance with the principles disclosed herein have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and are not limiting. Thus, the breadth and scope of the invention(s) should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the claims and their equivalents issuing from this disclosure. Furthermore, the above advantages and features are provided in described embodiments, but shall not limit the application of such issued claims to processes and structures accomplishing any or all of the above advantages.

[00088] It will be understood that the principal features of this disclosure can be employed in various embodiments without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, numerous equivalents to the specific procedures described herein. Such equivalents are considered to be within the scope of this disclosure and are covered by the claims.

[00089] Additionally, the section headings herein are provided for consistency with the suggestions under 37 CFR 1.77 or otherwise to provide organizational cues. These headings shall not limit or characterize the invention(s) set out in any claims that may issue from this disclosure. Specifically, and by way of example, although the headings refer to a“Field of Invention,” such claims should not be limited by the language under this heading to describe the so-called technical field. Further, a description of technology in the “Background of the Invention” section is not to be construed as an admission that technology is prior art to any invention(s) in this disclosure. Neither is the“Summary” to be considered a characterization of the invention(s) set forth in issued claims. Furthermore, any reference in this disclosure to “invention” in the singular should not be used to argue that there is only a single point of novelty in this disclosure. Multiple inventions may be set forth according to the limitations of the multiple claims issuing from this disclosure, and such claims accordingly define the invention(s), and their equivalents, that are protected thereby. In all instances, the scope of such claims shall be considered on their own merits in light of this disclosure, but should not be constrained by the headings set forth herein.

[00090] The use of the word“a” or“an” when used in conjunction with the term

“comprising” in the claims and/or the specification may mean“one,” but it is also consistent with the meaning of“one or more,”“at least one,” and“one or more than one.” The use of the term “or” in the claims is used to mean“and/or” unless explicitly indicated to refer to alternatives only or the alternatives are mutually exclusive, although the disclosure supports a definition that refers to only alternatives and“and/or.” Throughout this application, the term“about” is used to indicate that a value includes the inherent variation of error for the device, the method being employed to determine the value, or the variation that exists among the study subjects. In general, but subject to the preceding discussion, a numerical value herein that is modified by a word of approximation such as“about” may vary from the stated value by at least ±1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 12 or 15%.

[00091] As used in this specification and claim(s), the words“comprising” (and any form of comprising, such as“comprise” and“comprises”),“having” (and any form of having, such as “have” and“has”),“including” (and any form of including, such as“includes” and“include”) or “containing” (and any form of containing, such as“contains” and“contain”) are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

[00092] Words of comparison, measurement, and timing such as “at the time,”

“equivalent,”“during,”“complete,” and the like should be understood to mean“substantially at the time,” “substantially equivalent,” “substantially during,” “substantially complete,” etc., where“substantially” means that such comparisons, measurements, and timings are practicable to accomplish the implicitly or expressly stated desired result. Words relating to relative position of elements such as“near,”“proximate to,” and“adjacent to” shall mean sufficiently close to have a material effect upon the respective system element interactions. Other words of approximation similarly refer to a condition that when so modified is understood to not necessarily be absolute or perfect but would be considered close enough to those of ordinary skill in the art to warrant designating the condition as being present. The extent to which the description may vary will depend on how great a change can be instituted and still have one of ordinary skilled in the art recognize the modified feature as still having the required characteristics and capabilities of the unmodified feature.

[00093] The term“or combinations thereof’ as used herein refers to all permutations and combinations of the listed items preceding the term. For example,“A, B, C, or combinations thereof is intended to include at least one of: A, B, C, AB, AC, BC, or ABC, and if order is important in a particular context, also BA, CA, CB, CBA, BCA, ACB, BAC, or CAB. Continuing with this example, expressly included are combinations that contain repeats of one or more item or term, such as BB, AAA, AB, BBC, AAABCCCC, CBBAAA, CABABB, and so forth. The skilled artisan will understand that typically there is no limit on the number of items or terms in any combination, unless otherwise apparent from the context.

[00094] All of the compositions and/or methods disclosed and claimed herein can be made and executed without undue experimentation in light of the present disclosure. While the compositions and methods of this disclosure have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to those of skill in the art that variations may be applied to the compositions and/or methods and in the steps or in the sequence of steps of the method described herein without departing from the concept, spirit and scope of the disclosure. All such similar substitutes and modifications apparent to those skilled in the art are deemed to be within the spirit, scope and concept of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A cutting guide and immobilization device comprising:

a first gripping apparatus comprising:

a first gripping arm;

a second gripping arm;

a first gripping surface; and

wherein the first gripping arm and the second gripping arm define a blade-access channel between a first cutting guide of the first gripping arm and a second cutting guide of the second gripping arm;

a second gripping apparatus comprising a second gripping surface; and

wherein a fixed end of the first gripping apparatus and a fixed end of the second gripping apparatus are fastened to a fixed-end structure and a maneuverable end of the first gripping apparatus and a maneuverable end of the second gripping apparatus are fastened to a tightening apparatus wherein the first gripping surface faces the second gripping surface and the tightening apparatus is configured to tension the maneuverable ends of the first and second gripping apparatuses towards each other.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the first and second gripping surfaces are configured to grip an object contacted by the first and second gripping surfaces.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein a first area of the first gripping surface is disposed on the first gripping arm and a second area of the first gripping surface is disposed on the second gripping arm.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the tightening apparatus comprises a tensioning belt fastened to the maneuverable end of the first gripping apparatus and a ratcheting clip fastened to the maneuverable end of the second gripping apparatus wherein the tensioning belt is configured to be pulled through the ratcheting clip to tension the maneuverable ends of the first and second gripping apparatuses towards each other.

5. The device of claim 5, wherein the ratcheting clip is configured to lock the tensioning belt in place to maintain a tension between the maneuverable ends of the first and second gripping apparatuses.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the fixed-end structure maintains a distance between the fixed ends of the first and second gripping apparatuses.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein the fixed end of at least one of the first gripping apparatus and the second gripping apparatus is configured to be translated to different locations on the fixed-end structure to modify the distance between the fixed ends of the first and second gripping apparatuses.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the second gripping apparatus further comprises a third gripping arm; a fourth gripping arm; and wherein the third gripping arm and the fourth gripping arm define a blade-access channel between a third cutting guide of the third gripping arm and a fourth cutting guide of the fourth gripping arm.

9. The device of claim 8, wherein a third area of the second gripping surface is disposed on the third gripping arm and a fourth area of the second gripping surface is disposed on the fourth gripping arm.

10. The device of claim 8, wherein the fixed-end structure comprises a first bar, a first end of the first bar being secured in a first-bar holder disposed on the first gripping arm, and a second bar, a first end of the second bar being secured in a second-bar holder disposed on the second gripping arm, wherein the third gripping arm further comprises a first bar clamp configured to receive a second end of the first bar through the first bar clamp and the fourth gripping arm further comprises a second bar clamp configured to receive a second end of the second bar through the second-bar clamp.

11. The device of claim 10, wherein the first and second bar clamps are configured to secure the third and fourth gripping arms to the first and second bars so the fixed-end structure maintains a distance between the fixed ends of the first and second gripping apparatuses when the first and second bar clamps are locked.

12. The device of claim 11, wherein the fixed end of the second gripping apparatus is configured to be translated in either directions along the first and second bars when the first and second bar clamps are unlocked.

13. The device of claim 11, wherein the first bar and second bar further comprise a plurality of notches configured to cooperate with the first and second bar clamps to secure the third and fourth gripping arms to the first and second bars.

14. The device of claim 11, wherein at least one of the first and second bar clamps comprises a butterfly clamp.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein the butterfly clamp is biased into a locked position and unlocked by compressing a first arm of the butterfly clamp and a second arm of the butterfly clamp towards each other.

16. The device of claim 1, wherein the blade-access channel is configured to provide a blade access to medial locations between the first and second gripping apparatuses from locations lateral to the first gripping apparatus.

17. The device of claim 1, wherein at least one fastening spacer separates the first gripping arm from the second gripping arm to define the blade-access channel of the first gripping apparatus.

18. A cutting guide and immobilization device comprising:

a first gripping apparatus comprising:

a first gripping arm comprising:

a fixed end;

a maneuverable end; and

a first gripping surface; a second gripping arm comprising:

a fixed end;

a maneuverable end; and

a second gripping surface

wherein the maneuverable end of the first gripping arm is connected to the maneuverable end of the second gripping arm; and

a second gripping apparatus comprising:

a third gripping arm comprising;

a fixed end;

a maneuverable end; and

a third gripping surface;

a fourth gripping arm comprising:

a fixed end;

a maneuverable end; and

a fourth gripping surface;

wherein the maneuverable end of the third gripping arm is connected to the maneuverable end of the fourth gripping arm; and

wherein the third gripping arm and the fourth gripping arm define a blade-access channel between a third cutting guide of the third gripping arm and a fourth cutting guide of the fourth gripping arm; and

wherein the fixed ends of the first gripping apparatus and the fixed ends of the second gripping apparatus are fastened to a fixed-end structure and the maneuverable ends of the first gripping apparatus and the maneuverable ends of the second gripping apparatus are fastened to a tightening apparatus wherein the first gripping surface and the second gripping surface face the third gripping surface and the fourth gripping surface and the tightening apparatus is configured to tension the maneuverable ends of the first and second gripping apparatuses towards each other.

19. The device of claim 18, wherein the maneuverable ends of the first gripping apparatus are connected by a first fastening spacer that maintains a distance between the first gripping arm and the second gripping arm to define the blade-access channel between the first cutting guide and the second cutting guide and wherein the maneuverable ends of the second gripping apparatus are connected by a second fastening spacer that maintains a distance between the third gripping arm and the fourth gripping arm to define the blade-access channel between the third cutting guide and the fourth cutting guide.

20. The device of claim 18, wherein the tightening apparatus comprises a tensioning belt fastened to the first fastening spacer and a ratcheting clip fastened to the second fastening spacer wherein the tensioning belt is configured to be pulled through the ratcheting clip to tension the maneuverable ends of the first and second gripping apparatuses towards each other.

21. The device of claim 18. wherein the fixed-end structure comprises a first bar, a first end of the first bar being secured in a first bar holder disposed on the first gripping arm, and a second bar, a first end of the second bar being secured in a second bar holder disposed on the second gripping arm, wherein the third gripping arm further comprises a first bar clamp configured to receive a second end of the first bar through the first bar clamp and the fourth gripping arm further comprises a second bar clamp configured to receive a second end of the second bar through the second bar clamp.

22. The device of claim 21, wherein the first and second bar clamps are configured to secure the third and fourth gripping arms to the first and second bars so the fixed-end structure maintains a distance between the fixed ends of the first and third gripping arms and the fixed ends of the second and fourth gripping arms when the first bar clamp and the second bar clamp are locked.

23. The device of claim 22, wherein the fixed ends of the second gripping apparatus are configured to be translated in either direction along the first second bars when the first and second bar clamps are unlocked.

24. The device of claim 23, wherein the first bar and second bar further comprise a plurality of notches configured to cooperate with the first and second bar clamps to secure the fixed end of the third and fourth gripping arms to the first and second bars.

25. The device of claim 24, wherein at least one of the first and second bar clamps comprises a butterfly clamp.

26. The device of claim 25, wherein the butterfly clamp is biased into a locked position and unlocked by compressing a first arm of the butterfly clamp and a second arm of the butterfly clamp towards each other.