Kinematic Alignment Technology for Athletic Performance Optimization
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept leverages kinematic alignment technology to monitor, analyze, and optimize athletic performance, preventing injuries and enhancing overall athletic ability.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent, focused on total knee arthroplasty, highlights the importance of kinematic alignment in orthopedic procedures. However, the patent's limitations in addressing athletic performance and injury prevention create an opportunity for innovation. The new inventive concept addresses this gap by applying kinematic alignment technology to athletic performance monitoring, analysis, and optimization.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises wearable devices with sensors configured to track kinematic alignment of an athlete's joints during exercise. The data is transmitted to a cloud-based platform for analysis and feedback. The system can detect and prevent injuries, optimize athletic training regimens, and evaluate the effectiveness of athletic training programs. Additionally, the technology can be used to enhance athletic performance in individuals with physical disabilities.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of kinematic alignment technology to athletic performance optimization, which is not obvious from the original patent's focus on orthopedic procedures. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of kinematic alignment principles to wearable devices and cloud-based platforms for real-time analysis and feedback.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments could include integrating kinematic alignment sensors into athletic equipment, such as shoes or helmets, or developing mobile applications for real-time feedback. Variations could also include using machine learning algorithms to analyze kinematic alignment data and provide personalized coaching recommendations.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the sports technology and athletic performance markets, with potential applications in professional sports, fitness, and healthcare industries. The technology could be licensed to sports equipment manufacturers, athletic training programs, or healthcare providers, offering a competitive advantage in athletic performance optimization and injury prevention.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/155 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/157 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/1675 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/1764 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/90 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/564 |
| A | A61 | A61B2090/061 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Biomedical engineering and orthopedic technology, specifically focused on joint kinematic analysis, sensor-based motion tracking, and biomechanical performance measurement systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or sports biomechanics specialist with expertise in sensor technologies, motion analysis, data processing, and interdisciplinary applications of joint alignment tracking systems
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental similarity between orthopedic joint alignment tracking and athletic performance monitoring, understanding that sensor-based kinematic alignment principles can be readily translated across medical and athletic domains. The core technological framework of tracking joint positioning, capturing spatial data, and generating analytical feedback remains consistent between orthopedic surgical planning and athletic performance optimization. The extension of kinematic alignment technology from surgical instruments to wearable performance tracking represents a predictable technological progression within sensor and biomechanical engineering.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,202 |
|---|---|
| Title | Knee resection and gap balancing instruments and techniques for kinematic alignment |
| Assignee(s) | Zimmer, Inc. |