Adaptive Forceps System for Enhanced Tissue Manipulation
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A next-generation forceps system that dynamically adjusts its force distribution, jaw shape, and angle to optimize tissue engagement and grasping in various surgical procedures.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent's forceps design, although innovative, has limitations in adapting to diverse tissue types and densities. The new inventive concept addresses this shortcoming by introducing an adaptive forceps system that can adjust its force distribution and jaw configuration in real-time to ensure precise and effective tissue manipulation.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The adaptive forceps system comprises a forceps with hinged jaws and force distribution, wherein the jaws are configured to adaptively adjust their clamping force in response to tissue type and density. The system incorporates advanced sensors and AI-powered control algorithms to detect tissue properties and adjust the force distribution accordingly. Additionally, the jaws can change their shape and angle in response to tissue morphology, allowing for more precise and effective tissue engagement. The system can be integrated with robotic-assisted surgical systems or used as a standalone instrument.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a paradigm shift in forceps design by incorporating adaptive force distribution, dynamic jaw configuration, and AI-powered control, which are not present in the original patent. These features enable the forceps to respond to tissue properties in real-time, ensuring more precise and effective tissue manipulation.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the adaptive forceps system could include modular jaw modules with varying force distribution profiles, interchangeable sensors for detecting different tissue properties, or integration with other surgical instruments to create a comprehensive surgical platform.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The adaptive forceps system has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the fields of laparoscopic and open surgeries, robotic-assisted surgeries, and minimally invasive procedures. The system's ability to optimize tissue manipulation and grasping can lead to improved patient outcomes, reduced complications, and enhanced surgical efficiency.
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
Surgical instrumentation, specifically minimally invasive surgical devices with articulating end effectors and force transmission mechanisms, requiring advanced mechanical engineering and biomedical design skills
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or surgical instrument designer with expertise in mechanical design, materials science, and understanding of surgical procedural requirements, typically holding an advanced degree and 3-5 years of specialized design experience
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the adaptive forceps system represents predictable variations on the source patent's fundamental mechanical design, applying known sensor and control technologies to enhance the core forceps mechanism. The disclosed AI-powered force distribution and dynamic jaw configuration are logical extensions of the existing mechanical principles of force transmission and jaw articulation. These modifications represent incremental improvements using standard engineering techniques available to those skilled in surgical instrument design.
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. |