Electromechanical Device for Diverse Industry Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept extends the core technology of handheld electromechanical surgical systems to new industries, including food processing, precision farming, marine exploration, textile manufacturing, and forestry, enabling precise cutting, stapling, and other functions in various contexts.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a handheld electromechanical surgical system for performing surgical procedures. However, the system's capabilities were limited to the medical field. This inventive concept addresses the problem of restricted application by adapting the core technology to address specific needs in diverse industries, thereby increasing its versatility and value.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a handheld electromechanical device with interchangeable modules tailored to specific industries. The device includes a power handle, an outer shell housing, and an adapter assembly for selective connection with various modules. In food processing, the device performs precision cutting and stapling of food products. In precision farming, the device collects soil samples and analyzes nutrient levels. In marine exploration, the device is waterproof and connects with underwater tools. In textile manufacturing, the device performs precision cutting and sewing of fabric. In forestry, the device prunes trees and analyzes branches. Each module is designed to meet the unique requirements of its respective industry.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel applications and use cases for the handheld electromechanical device, which were not anticipated by the original patent. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the core technology to diverse industries, resulting in a more versatile and valuable device.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include modular designs with different power sources, motor configurations, or control systems. Variations could involve integrating sensors, artificial intelligence, or data analytics to enhance the device's performance and decision-making capabilities.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including food processing, agriculture, marine exploration, textile manufacturing, and forestry. The device's versatility, precision, and adaptability make it an attractive solution for companies seeking to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/1155 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/072 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/07207 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/320016 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/068 |
| A | A61 | A61B90/98 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00017 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00022 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/0046 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00119 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00199 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00221 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00398 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00411 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00464 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00473 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00725 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00734 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07257 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07271 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07285 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/2903 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/2904 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/320032 |
| A | A61 | A61B2090/064 |
| A | A61 | A61B2090/0803 |
| A | A61 | A61B2090/0811 |
| A | A61 | A61B2217/007 |
| A | A61 | A61B2562/0261 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Electromechanical surgical and precision instrumentation systems, involving modular handheld devices with adaptive control systems for mechanical manipulation across medical and industrial applications
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
An engineer with expertise in electromechanical systems design, familiar with modular device architectures, control systems, and cross-industry technology adaptation, possessing advanced mechanical engineering and electrical engineering degrees
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental architectural similarities between surgical devices and precision industrial tools, understanding that the core electromechanical principles of the source patent's surgical system can be readily adapted to diverse industrial contexts through modular design strategies. The source patent's core technological elements - power handle, motor control, adapter assembly, and precision movement capabilities - represent a generalized platform that can be systematically modified for different operational environments. The PTD's variations represent predictable extensions of existing technological capabilities, leveraging known modular design principles and cross-domain engineering adaptation techniques.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,194 |
|---|---|
| Title | Handheld electromechanical surgical system |
| Assignee(s) | Covidien LP |