Multi-Functional Grasper Technology for Diverse Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept leverages the core technology of the original medical device patent to develop novel applications in wildlife monitoring, infrastructure inspection, search and rescue, underwater pipeline inspection, and agricultural harvesting.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent's medical device was limited to minimally invasive medical procedures. However, the innovative design of the tissue grasper and end effector can be adapted to tackle complex problems in various industries. The new inventive concept addresses the need for versatile, adaptable, and efficient solutions in these fields.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept revolves around the core technology of the tissue grasper, which is modified and integrated into various systems and devices to tackle specific challenges. For instance, in wildlife monitoring, the grasper is adapted to grasp and hold small animals, while the data tracking module records and analyzes data on the animals. Similarly, in infrastructure inspection, the grasper is used to grasp and hold infrastructure components, and sensors and cameras analyze the components. The robotic system for search and rescue operations utilizes the grasper to grasp and hold objects, guided by a navigation module. The underwater pipeline inspection device features a waterproof housing, and the agricultural harvesting system incorporates a processing module for sorting and packaging harvested crops.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel applications of the original medical device technology, which are non-obvious and unanticipated by the original patent. The inventive concept's versatility and adaptability to diverse industries demonstrate a significant departure from the original medical device's intended use.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include modifying the grasper's design for specific industries, integrating additional sensors or cameras, or developing specialized software for data analysis and processing. Variations could also involve adapting the grasper for use in other industries, such as environmental monitoring or disaster response.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including wildlife conservation, infrastructure management, search and rescue operations, underwater pipeline inspection, and agricultural harvesting. The market for these applications is substantial, with a growing need for efficient, adaptable, and innovative solutions.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/295 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/29 |
| A | A61 | A61B18/1445 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/068 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/34 |
| A | A61 | A61B18/085 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/2901 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/2926 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/320044 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00595 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/1455 |
| A | A61 | A61B2090/0817 |
| A | A61 | A61B2217/005 |
| A | A61 | A61B2217/007 |
| A | A61 | A61B2218/002 |
| A | A61 | A61B2218/007 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device engineering, specifically minimally invasive surgical instrumentation with articulating end effectors, encompassing robotic and mechanical grasping technologies across multiple domains
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or mechanical engineer with expertise in surgical instrument design, robotic manipulation, sensor integration, and cross-domain technology adaptation, holding advanced degrees and 5-10 years of professional experience
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental grasping mechanism of the source patent as a versatile technological platform capable of adaptation across multiple technical domains. The core mechanical principles of tissue manipulation are readily transferable to other precision grasping applications by modifying the end effector design and integrating domain-specific sensors or control systems. The PTD demonstrates predictable variations that leverage the source patent's core technological insights through straightforward engineering modifications.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,214 |
|---|---|
| Title | Multi-functional medical device and related |
| Assignee(s) | Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. |