Lateral Retractor System for Diverse Industrial Applications

Publication ID: 24-11857173_0007_PTD
Published: November 07, 2025
Category:New Applications & Use Cases

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “Lateral Retractor System for Diverse Industrial Applications,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11857173_0007_PTD, Published November 07, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11857173_0007_PTD
This technical disclosure describes improvements that would be readily apparent to a Person Having Ordinary Skill In The Art (PHOSITA) when considered in combination with the foundational architecture disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,857,173.

Summary of the Inventive Concept

This inventive concept leverages the core technology of the original lateral retractor system to create novel solutions for various industries, including fruit harvesting, coffee bean harvesting, wind turbine inspection, tree pruning, and bridge maintenance.

Background and Problem Solved

The original lateral retractor system was designed for spinal surgical procedures, but its limitations in terms of ease of use, stability, visibility, and robustness led to the development of new applications. This inventive concept addresses the need for adaptable, efficient, and precise solutions in diverse industries.

Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept

The lateral retractor system is adapted for use in various industrial applications by modifying the armatures, blades, and robotic arm connections. For example, in fruit harvesting, the lateral retractor system is attached to a robotic arm that manipulates the fruit, while in wind turbine inspection, the system is used to inspect and repair turbine blades. The new claims describe these adaptations and their implementation in different industries.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The new claims introduce novel applications of the lateral retractor system, which are non-obvious extensions of the original patent. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the core technology to address specific challenges in diverse industries.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments could include modifications to the armature design, blade materials, or robotic arm connections to better suit specific industrial applications. Variations could also involve integrating sensors, cameras, or other technologies to enhance the system's precision and efficiency.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

This inventive concept has significant commercial potential in industries such as agriculture, renewable energy, and infrastructure maintenance. The target market includes companies involved in fruit and coffee harvesting, wind turbine manufacturing and maintenance, and bridge construction and maintenance.

CPC Classifications

SectionClassGroup
A A61 A61B17/0206
A A61 A61B17/025
A A61 A61B17/7079
A A61 A61B2017/00477
A A61 A61B2017/0256

Original Patent Information

Patent NumberUS 11,857,173
TitleLateral retractor system and methods of use
Assignee(s)Zimmer Biomet Spine, Inc.