Adaptable Forceps Technology for Diverse Industries
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept leverages the core technology of forceps with hinged jaws and force distribution to address various challenges in new industries, including agriculture, forestry, infrastructure maintenance, aquaculture, and mechanical assembly.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent for forceps with hinged jaws and force distribution primarily focused on medical applications. However, the limitations of this technology in addressing specific problems in other industries became apparent. For instance, in agriculture, current harvesting methods can be labor-intensive and may cause damage to crops. In forestry, pruning trees can be hazardous and time-consuming. In infrastructure maintenance, inspecting and maintaining infrastructure can be challenging and costly. In aquaculture, handling and processing fish requires gentle and efficient methods. In mechanical assembly, grasping and manipulating components can be cumbersome. The new inventive concept addresses these specific problems by adapting the forceps technology to these diverse industries.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a forceps with hinged jaws and force distribution, adapted for various industries. In agriculture, the forceps is designed to grasp and manipulate crop stalks or vines during harvesting operations, reducing labor intensity and crop damage. In forestry, the forceps is configured to apply a controlled force to cut or remove branches or limbs, enhancing pruning efficiency and safety. In infrastructure maintenance, the forceps is used to grasp and manipulate objects during inspection or maintenance operations, improving accessibility and reducing costs. In aquaculture, the forceps is adapted to gently grasp and manipulate fish without causing injury or harm, increasing processing efficiency and reducing fish mortality. In mechanical assembly, the forceps applies a controlled force to grasp and manipulate components during assembly or disassembly operations, streamlining the process and reducing component damage.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of the forceps technology, expanding its scope beyond medical devices to address specific challenges in diverse industries. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the forceps design to accommodate the unique requirements of each industry, demonstrating a non-obvious and innovative approach to problem-solving.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include modifying the forceps design to accommodate different crop types, tree species, or infrastructure components. Variations could also involve integrating the forceps with autonomous systems, such as drones or robots, to enhance efficiency and precision in these industries.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the agriculture, forestry, infrastructure maintenance, aquaculture, and mechanical assembly industries. The market for this technology is substantial, with potential applications in crop harvesting, tree pruning, infrastructure inspection, fish processing, and component assembly. The adaptable forceps technology can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance safety in these industries, providing a competitive advantage to companies that adopt it.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/282 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00367 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/2932 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/2933 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device engineering and mechanical manipulation systems, with expertise in precision grasping mechanisms, force distribution technologies, and multi-industry adaptable mechanical interfaces
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A mechanical engineer with advanced training in biomechanical design, experience in medical device development, and knowledge of force transmission principles across mechanical systems, capable of translating specialized design concepts into diverse application contexts
Obviousness Rationale
The source patent's forceps technology provides a fundamental mechanical design that can be readily adapted to alternative industrial contexts by a skilled practitioner. The core principles of controlled force transmission, hinged jaw mechanics, and precision grasping are universally applicable across multiple domains. A PHOSITA would recognize that the fundamental mechanical principles disclosed in the medical forceps patent can be systematically translated to other precision manipulation requirements with predictable modifications.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,213 |
|---|---|
| Title | Forceps with hinged jaws and force distribution |
| Assignee(s) | Gyrus ACMI, Inc. |