Enhanced Circular Fixator System with Advanced Rotational Control

Publication ID: 24-11857207_0006_PTD
Published: November 07, 2025
Category:Direct Improvements & Enhancements

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “Enhanced Circular Fixator System with Advanced Rotational Control,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11857207_0006_PTD, Published November 07, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11857207_0006_PTD
This technical disclosure describes improvements that would be readily apparent to a Person Having Ordinary Skill In The Art (PHOSITA) when considered in combination with the foundational architecture disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,857,207.

Summary of the Inventive Concept

An improved circular fixator system for orthopedic implants, featuring advanced rotational control mechanisms, enhanced stabilization, and modular design for total ankle replacement and joint stabilization procedures.

Background and Problem Solved

The original circular fixator system patent had limitations in terms of rotational control, stabilization, and component customization. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing adjustable stop mechanisms, built-in sensors, dynamic stabilization components, and modular designs to provide more efficient, accurate, and adaptable ankle joint stabilization and total ankle replacement procedures.

Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept

The enhanced circular fixator system comprises a foot holder with a rotation base plate having a retaining body defining a groove. The retaining body includes an adjustable stop mechanism to limit rotation of the foot holder relative to the retaining body. Additionally, the system features a built-in sensor to detect and adjust the rotational movement of the foot holder. The foot holder also includes a dynamic stabilization component that provides continuous adjustment of the rotational movement of the foot holder relative to the retaining body. Furthermore, the system incorporates a modular design, allowing for easy replacement or upgrading of components, thereby reducing the overall cost and complexity of the system.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The new inventive concept introduces several novel features, including the adjustable stop mechanism, built-in sensor, dynamic stabilization component, and modular design. These features provide a non-obvious improvement over the original patent, enabling more precise and adaptable ankle joint stabilization and total ankle replacement procedures.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments of the enhanced circular fixator system could include variations in the adjustable stop mechanism, such as using different materials or geometries. Additionally, the system could be adapted for use in other orthopedic procedures, such as knee or hip joint stabilization. The modular design could also be applied to other medical devices, allowing for greater customization and flexibility.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

The enhanced circular fixator system has significant commercial potential in the orthopedic implant market, particularly in the areas of total ankle replacement and joint stabilization. The system's advanced features and modular design could provide a competitive advantage in the market, appealing to surgeons and medical professionals seeking more efficient and effective procedures.

CPC Classifications

SectionClassGroup
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

Field of Art

Orthopedic surgical devices and methods, specifically focusing on joint stabilization and replacement technologies, with expertise in biomechanical design, surgical instrumentation, and orthopedic implant systems

Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile

A biomedical engineer or orthopedic surgical device designer with advanced degree, 5-10 years of experience in medical device development, familiar with joint stabilization techniques, surgical instrumentation design, and biomechanical principles

Obviousness Rationale

A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's disclosed variations represent predictable engineering improvements to the source patent's circular fixator system. The additional features like adjustable stop mechanisms, built-in sensors, and dynamic stabilization components are logical extensions of existing orthopedic device design principles. These modifications represent incremental technical advancements that would be apparent to a skilled practitioner seeking to optimize joint stabilization technologies.

Obvious Combinations & Variations

Source Patent Element
Foot holder with rotation base plate including a retaining body defining a groove
PTD Variation
Adding an adjustable stop mechanism to limit rotation within the groove
Obviousness Reasoning
Implementing rotational control is a predictable design improvement for surgical positioning devices, representing a known technique for enhancing precision and patient safety
Source Patent Element
Locking pin positioning method for preventing translation
PTD Variation
Incorporating a built-in sensor to detect and adjust rotational movement
Obviousness Reasoning
Integrating electronic monitoring into mechanical systems is a standard engineering approach for improving device functionality and precision
Source Patent Element
Cartridge holder with movable tabs for attaching surgical guides
PTD Variation
Developing a modular design allowing easy component replacement
Obviousness Reasoning
Modular design is a well-established engineering strategy for reducing complexity and manufacturing costs in medical device systems
Source Patent Element
Ankle joint replacement surgical technique
PTD Variation
Adding dynamic stabilization component for continuous rotational adjustment
Obviousness Reasoning
Enhancing joint movement control is a predictable solution for improving surgical outcomes and patient mobility
Source Patent Element
Basic circular fixator system for ankle joint stabilization
PTD Variation
Expanding potential applications to other orthopedic procedures like knee or hip joint stabilization
Obviousness Reasoning
Adapting medical device technologies across similar anatomical systems is a standard design approach for maximizing technological utility
35 U.S.C. § 103 Summary: Based on the teachings of US Patent 11857207, a person having ordinary skill in the art would find the variations disclosed in this publication to be obvious extensions of existing orthopedic fixator technologies. The incremental improvements in rotational control, sensor integration, and modular design represent predictable engineering solutions that would be apparent to a skilled practitioner, thus rendering potential derivative claims obvious under 35 U.S.C. ยง 103.

Original Patent Information

Patent NumberUS 11,857,207
TitleCircular fixator system and method
Assignee(s)WRIGHT MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY, INC.