Adaptive Circular Fixator Systems for Diverse Industries
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept expands the core technology of the original circular fixator system to address unmet needs in various industries, including agriculture, robotics, and sports rehabilitation.
Background and Problem Solved
The original circular fixator system was designed for orthopedic implants, but its limitations in terms of adaptability and applicability to other fields hindered its broader adoption. This inventive concept solves the problem of limited applicability by adapting the circular fixator system to novel use cases, such as environmental monitoring, crop optimization, modular hydroponics, robotic harvesting, and joint rehabilitation.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept comprises a circular fixator system, modified to accommodate diverse applications. In agriculture, the system stabilizes and rotates plants to simulate weight-bearing conditions, promoting healthy growth. In robotics, it enables precise harvesting mechanisms. In sports rehabilitation, it helps track joint movement and stress. The system's adaptability is achieved through modular design, sensor integration, and advanced materials.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel applications of the circular fixator system, unanticipated by the original patent. The inventive step lies in the unexpected adaptation of the core technology to unrelated fields, demonstrating a previously unrecognized potential for the circular fixator system.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include adjustable fixator systems for varying plant sizes, modular robotic arms for diverse harvesting tasks, or wearable rehabilitation devices for personalized joint therapy. Variations may incorporate AI-powered sensor analysis, machine learning-based crop optimization, or advanced materials for enhanced durability.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has far-reaching commercial potential, targeting industries such as agriculture, robotics, and sports rehabilitation. The adaptive circular fixator system can be marketed as a modular, customizable solution for diverse applications, offering a competitive edge in these growing markets.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/1775 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/1642 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/1682 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/6425 |
| A | A61 | A61G13/125 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/157 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/1659 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/171 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/1739 |
| A | A61 | A61B2090/034 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/4202 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/4606 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/4205 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/4207 |
| A | A61 | A61G13/129 |
| A | A61 | A61G13/1295 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Orthopedic medical devices, biomechanical systems, and mechanical stabilization technologies with expertise in joint fixation, rehabilitation engineering, and adaptive mechanical systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or mechanical engineer with advanced degrees, experience in orthopedic device design, understanding of joint biomechanics, and capability to adapt mechanical systems across different technical domains
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the circular fixator system's core mechanical principles of rotation, stabilization, and precise positional control are fundamentally transferable across multiple technical domains. The source patent's detailed mechanical design provides a clear technological foundation that can be systematically adapted to alternative applications through modular design and sensor integration. The PTD's variations represent predictable extensions of the original circular fixator system's core mechanical and functional principles.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,207 |
|---|---|
| Title | Circular fixator system and method |
| Assignee(s) | WRIGHT MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY, INC. |