Kinematic Alignment Technology for Diverse Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept leverages the core technology of knee resection and gap balancing instruments for kinematic alignment to develop novel solutions in agriculture, nutrition, healthcare, energy, and fitness.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent focused on orthopedic procedures and instruments for total knee arthroplasties. However, its kinematic alignment principles can be applied to various industries, addressing specific pain points. For instance, in agriculture, optimizing crop yields is crucial; in nutrition, personalized meal planning is essential; in healthcare, early disease detection is vital; in energy, optimizing wind turbine performance is critical; and in fitness, customized exercise routines are valuable.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new claims utilize the kinematic alignment technology to develop innovative solutions in diverse fields. In agriculture, the tibial positioner device connects a crop sensor to a field map, enabling optimized irrigation and fertilizer application. In nutrition, the kinematic alignment-based algorithm analyzes users' dietary needs and preferences, generating customized meal plans. In healthcare, the femoral resection guide detects subtle changes in gait patterns, while the tibial resection guide detects corresponding changes in brain activity, facilitating early disease detection. In energy, the tibial positioner device connects a wind speed sensor to a turbine control system, optimizing energy production. In fitness, the kinematic alignment-based algorithm analyzes users' fitness goals and physical abilities, generating customized exercise routines.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel applications of kinematic alignment technology, extending its use beyond orthopedic procedures to address specific problems in various industries. The inventive step lies in adapting the core technology to these new fields, providing innovative solutions that were not obvious from the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments could include using the kinematic alignment technology in other industries, such as environmental monitoring or robotics. Variations could involve modifying the sensor types, algorithm parameters, or device designs to better suit specific applications.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential, targeting industries such as agriculture, nutrition, healthcare, energy, and fitness. The market for these solutions is substantial, with opportunities for partnerships, licensing, and product development.
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, medical device design, and orthopedic surgical instrumentation, with expertise in kinematic alignment technologies, biomechanical sensing, and adaptive positioning systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or orthopedic device designer with advanced degree, 5-10 years experience in medical device development, familiar with sensor integration, mechanical alignment technologies, and cross-disciplinary technology adaptation
Obviousness Rationale
The PTD demonstrates a predictable extension of the source patent's core kinematic alignment technology by applying its fundamental positioning and sensing principles to diverse technical domains. A PHOSITA would recognize the underlying mechanical and algorithmic framework as readily transferable across fields, with minimal conceptual modification. The systematic approach of sensor integration, spatial mapping, and adaptive positioning represents a generalizable technological strategy that transcends specific medical applications.
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. |