Haptic Control for Industrial and Gaming Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept applies the core technology of automated alignment of a surgical tool to new industries and fields, leveraging haptic control for material handling, manufacturing, training, gaming, and flight simulation.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent addressed the need for precise control in computer-assisted surgeries. However, the technology's potential extends beyond medical applications. The inventive concept tackles limitations in material handling, manufacturing, training, gaming, and flight simulation by introducing haptic control to enhance safety, accessibility, and realism.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a haptic device coupled to a robotic arm or gaming console, providing tactile feedback or force feedback to operators. In material handling, the haptic device guides the robotic arm to retrieve items from shelves. In manufacturing, it prevents collisions between the robotic arm and surrounding objects. In training, it simulates tactile sensations of a surgical tool. In gaming, it enhances accessibility for gamers with disabilities. In flight simulation, it simulates the tactile sensations of flying an aircraft.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The inventive concept's novelty lies in applying haptic control to new industries and fields, addressing specific problems and limitations not considered in the original patent. The inventive step is in the creative adaptation of the core technology to solve distinct problems in material handling, manufacturing, training, gaming, and flight simulation.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include varying the shape and size of the haptic device, using different types of feedback (e.g., vibration, temperature), or integrating the technology with other systems (e.g., computer vision, artificial intelligence). Variations may also involve adapting the technology for use in other industries, such as logistics, construction, or education.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in industries such as logistics, manufacturing, gaming, and flight simulation. The technology can enhance efficiency, safety, and accessibility, providing a competitive edge for companies that adopt it. Target markets include warehouse operators, manufacturers, gaming console developers, and flight simulation providers.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/15 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/142 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/1615 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/1703 |
| A | A61 | A61B34/20 |
| A | A61 | A61B34/30 |
| A | A61 | A61B34/76 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/157 |
| A | A61 | A61B34/25 |
| A | A61 | A61B90/03 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00128 |
| A | A61 | A61B2034/105 |
| A | A61 | A61B2034/2055 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Haptic control systems for robotic interfaces, surgical robotics, and human-machine interaction technologies, involving precision guidance systems, feedback mechanisms, and multi-domain application of force/tactile sensing
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled engineer with expertise in robotics, human-computer interaction, and control systems, possessing knowledge of haptic feedback technologies, robotic arm kinematics, and cross-domain technology adaptation
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the core haptic control mechanism disclosed in the source patent represents a generalizable technology with broad applicability beyond surgical contexts. The fundamental principles of virtual boundary detection, force feedback, and robotic arm guidance can be systematically translated across different operational domains by applying standard engineering design principles and known adaptation techniques.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,200 |
|---|---|
| Title | Automated alignment of a surgical tool |
| Assignee(s) | MAKO Surgical Corp. |