Extensible Guide for a Tube

Abstract

A extensible guide that includes a body (10) and means for securing a tube (12) to the body. The body is in the shape of a helix with a substantially constant radius of curvature along the length of the body. The body is axially resiliently deformable between: (i) a neutral condition, in which the body is not subject to axial compressive or tensile forces; (ii) an extended condition, in which the body is subject to an axial tensile force; and (iii) a retracted condition, in which the body is subject to an axial compressive force. When the body is in the neutral condition, the extended condition or the retracted condition, the radius of curvature of the body remains substantially constant along the length of the body. In use, the extensible guide causes the flexible tube secured thereto to assume the helical shape of the body

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.