Advanced Endoscope System for Enhanced Procedural Efficiency and Precision
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A next-generation endoscope system integrating AI-assisted instrument guidance, autonomous navigation, and advanced elevator mechanisms to revolutionize minimally invasive procedures.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent, 'Endoscope having swinging elevator,' provided a significant improvement in endoscopic procedures. However, it had limitations in terms of instrument manipulation, procedural efficiency, and patient safety. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing advanced technologies to enhance the overall endoscopic experience.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The advanced endoscope system comprises a modular, self-cleaning insertion portion, a real-time AI-assisted instrument guidance module, and a dynamically adjustable, multi-degree-of-freedom elevator mechanism. The system enables autonomous navigation within a patient's body, utilizing real-time imaging and machine learning algorithms to optimize procedural efficiency. Additionally, the system features a robotic-assisted endoscopy platform integrating haptic feedback, real-time 3D visualization, and advanced instrument tracking for enhanced procedural accuracy. The modular, disposable endoscope design incorporates a sterilizable, nano-coated insertion portion and a compact, high-resolution imaging module, reducing procedural costs and improving patient safety.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept's novelty lies in the integration of AI-assisted instrument guidance, autonomous navigation, and advanced elevator mechanisms, which provide a significant improvement over the original patent's swinging elevator design. The inventive step resides in the combination of these advanced technologies to create a next-generation endoscope system that enhances procedural efficiency, precision, and patient safety.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include varying the design of the insertion portion, using different AI algorithms for instrument guidance, or incorporating additional sensors for real-time feedback. Variations could also involve adapting the system for specific medical specialties or procedures, such as colonoscopy or laparoscopy.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The advanced endoscope system has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the areas of minimally invasive surgery, gastrointestinal endoscopy, and robotic-assisted surgery. The target market includes hospitals, clinics, and medical research institutions, with potential for expansion into emerging markets and home healthcare.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B1/018 |
| A | A61 | A61B1/00098 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/12 |
| G | G02 | G02B23/24 |
| A | A61 | A61B1/00131 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical endoscopy and minimally invasive surgical instrumentation, with expertise in mechanical design, robotic guidance systems, and advanced imaging technologies for diagnostic and interventional procedures
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced degrees in mechanical engineering or biomedical engineering, having 5-10 years of experience in endoscopic device development, familiar with robotic surgical technologies and AI-assisted medical instrumentation
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the PTD's AI-assisted navigation and multi-degree-of-freedom elevator mechanism represent predictable technological extensions of the source patent's fundamental endoscope elevator design. The integration of machine learning algorithms and advanced robotic guidance with existing endoscopic instrument manipulation techniques would be considered an incremental and obvious improvement by a skilled practitioner. The modular design and autonomous navigation features emerge from well-established trends in medical device miniaturization and intelligent surgical technologies.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,163 |
|---|---|
| Title | Endoscope having swinging elevator |
| Assignee(s) | HOYA CORPORATION |