Patent attributes
A device including a first plate configured to interface with a first bone structure of a joint; a second plate configured to interface with a second bone structure of the joint opposite the first bone structure; and at least one mechanical actuation mechanism disposed between the first plate and the second plate and configured to apply a distraction force along an axis between the first plate and the second plate so as to urge the first plate and the second plate away from one another, wherein the device is configured so as to have a range of motion ranging from a minimum distance between the first plate and the second plate to a maximum distance between the first plate and the second plate, and wherein the mechanical actuation mechanism is configured such that the distraction force is substantially constant distraction force across the range of motion.