Articulation Joint Arrangements for Diverse Industries
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
Applying the core technology of combination function articulation joints to novel fields, including robotic lawn mowers, pipeline inspection, veterinary procedures, agricultural harvesting, and industrial machinery cleaning, to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent, focused on surgical instruments, limited the potential of articulation joints to a specific industry. This inventive concept addresses the need for more efficient and effective solutions in various industries, where the adaptability and precision of articulation joints can be leveraged.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept involves the application of combination function articulation joints to diverse industries, enabling selective articulation and precise control of tools and instruments. In robotic lawn mowers, the articulation joint facilitates efficient cutting patterns. In pipeline inspection, the articulation joint enables thorough and precise probe movement. In veterinary procedures, the articulation joint allows for precise stapling and cutting of animal tissue. In agricultural harvesting, the articulation joint improves crop harvesting efficiency. In industrial machinery cleaning, the articulation joint enables effective tool movement and debris removal.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel applications of articulation joints, departing from the original patent's surgical focus. The inventive step lies in recognizing the potential of articulation joints to improve efficiency and effectiveness in various industries, and adapting the technology to address specific challenges and needs.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include using different types of articulation joints, such as flexible or rigid joints, or integrating sensors and actuators to enhance precision and control. Variations may include applying the articulation joint technology to other industries, such as aerospace, automotive, or construction.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential, with applications in industries such as lawn care, pipeline inspection, veterinary medicine, agriculture, and industrial machinery maintenance. The target market includes manufacturers of robotic lawn mowers, pipeline inspection equipment, veterinary instruments, agricultural harvesting equipment, and industrial machinery cleaning tools.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/0686 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/00234 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/068 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/072 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/07207 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/29 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/320092 |
| A | A61 | A61B34/30 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00314 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00323 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00336 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00367 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00389 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00398 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00477 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07214 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07257 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07271 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07278 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07285 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/2927 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/320071 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/320093 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/320094 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/320095 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/320097 |
| A | A61 | A61B2034/301 |
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,182 |
|---|---|
| Title | Surgical instruments with combination function articulation joint arrangements |
| Assignee(s) | Cilag GmbH International |