Enhanced Articulation in Robotic Surgical Instruments

Publication ID: 24-11857189_0001_PTD
Published: November 07, 2025
Category:Direct Improvements & Enhancements

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “Enhanced Articulation in Robotic Surgical Instruments,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11857189_0001_PTD, Published November 07, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11857189_0001_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. 11,857,189.

Summary of the Inventive Concept

An improved surgical instrument design enabling multi-planar articulation and enhanced dexterity for minimally invasive robotic surgery.

Background and Problem Solved

The original patent disclosed a surgical instrument with a single articulation joint, limiting its flexibility and accessibility in complex surgical procedures. The new inventive concept addresses this limitation by introducing multi-planar articulation, enabling surgeons to access hard-to-reach areas and perform procedures with increased precision and dexterity.

Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept

The enhanced surgical instrument features a shaft assembly with multiple articulation joints, allowing for movement in multiple planes. This design enables the instrument to adapt to complex anatomical structures and navigate through tight spaces. The new claims also introduce a sensor-enabled system that adjusts the force transmitted to the instrument based on the detected force, ensuring safer and more controlled operations. Additionally, the inventive concept incorporates a real-time visualization system to provide surgeons with a precise view of the target site, facilitating more accurate and effective procedures.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The new claims introduce a significant improvement over the original patent by enabling multi-planar articulation and integrating sensor-enabled force adjustment and real-time visualization. These enhancements provide a substantial increase in dexterity, precision, and safety during minimally invasive robotic surgery.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include different shaft assembly configurations, adjustable articulation joints, and various sensor types. Additionally, the system could be integrated with machine learning algorithms to optimize surgical performance and reduce complications.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

The enhanced surgical instrument has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the field of minimally invasive robotic surgery. The target market includes hospitals, surgical centers, and medical research institutions, with potential for widespread adoption and revenue growth.

CPC Classifications

SectionClassGroup
A A61 A61B17/07207
A A61 A61B17/105
A A61 A61B17/29
A A61 A61B34/30
A A61 A61B34/35
A A61 A61B34/37
A A61 A61B34/71
A A61 A61B17/00234
A A61 A61B2017/00309
A A61 A61B2017/00314
A A61 A61B2017/00398
A A61 A61B2017/00477
A A61 A61B2017/07214
A A61 A61B2017/07271
A A61 A61B2017/07278
A A61 A61B2017/2903
A A61 A61B2017/2908
A A61 A61B2017/2929

Original Patent Information

Patent NumberUS 11,857,189
TitleSurgical instrument including first and second articulation joints
Assignee(s)Cilag GmbH International