Lateral Retractor System for Diverse Industrial Applications
Legal Citation
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
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/0206 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/025 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/7079 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00477 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/0256 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device engineering and robotic surgical systems, with expertise in mechanical design, biomechanical interfaces, and adaptable mechanical systems for precision manipulation
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled engineer with advanced mechanical engineering degree, experience in medical device design, understanding of robotic systems, and capability to adapt mechanical designs across different technical domains
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental mechanical principles of the lateral retractor system are universally applicable across different technical domains. The core mechanical design of pivotable armatures, blade interfaces, and robotic arm connections can be readily translated from surgical to industrial contexts with predictable modifications. The systematic approach of adapting a precision mechanical system to different environmental challenges represents a standard engineering problem-solving methodology.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,173 |
|---|---|
| Title | Lateral retractor system and methods of use |
| Assignee(s) | Zimmer Biomet Spine, Inc. |