Adaptive Spinal Fusion Systems for Specialized Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept discloses specialized spinal fusion systems adapted for unique operational environments, including extreme weather conditions, disaster relief, high-security needs, high-altitude environments, and emergency response situations.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent relates to interbody implants, specifically spinal fusion implants with locking screws for selectively locking bone screws. However, these implants are not designed to address the specific challenges posed by extreme environments or specialized applications. The present inventive concept addresses this limitation by providing adaptive spinal fusion systems tailored to meet the demands of diverse operational environments.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a range of spinal fusion systems, each adapted for a specific environment or application. For instance, the system for extreme weather conditions features a weather-resistant material and enhanced corrosion-resistant locking screws. The cervical bone plate system for disaster relief applications boasts a compact and lightweight design, simplified locking mechanism, and rapid implantation capabilities. The lumbar bone plate system for high-security needs incorporates an advanced locking mechanism with biometric authentication and tamper-evident features. The vertebral fusion system for high-altitude environments includes a specialized locking screw design that compensates for the effects of low air pressure on screw torque. Finally, the modular bone plate system for emergency response situations features interchangeable components and a quick-release locking mechanism for rapid deployment and adaptation to diverse patient needs.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The novelty of the present inventive concept lies in the adaptation of spinal fusion systems to address specific challenges posed by extreme environments or specialized applications. The inventive step is the provision of unique design features, materials, and mechanisms that enable the systems to operate effectively in these environments, thereby expanding the scope of spinal fusion technology.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include adaptations for other specialized environments, such as space exploration or underwater operations. Variations could also involve the integration of advanced materials, such as nanomaterials or smart materials, to enhance the systems' performance and durability.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The present inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the areas of orthopedic and spinal implant technology. Target industries include healthcare providers, medical device manufacturers, and emergency response organizations. The market potential is substantial, given the growing demand for specialized medical solutions and the increasing need for adaptable technologies in diverse operational environments.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/7059 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/8057 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/30749 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/4455 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/7061 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/7258 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/7275 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/8052 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/8061 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/844 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/863 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/864 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/8625 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Orthopedic surgical systems, specifically spinal fusion implants and bone plate technologies, involving biomechanical design, materials engineering, and surgical intervention techniques
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or orthopedic surgical device designer with advanced degree, expertise in medical device design, understanding of biomechanical constraints, materials science, and surgical implementation strategies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's specialized environment adaptations represent predictable variations of the source patent's fundamental bone plate and locking screw design. The core mechanical principles of the original spinal fusion system remain consistent, with modifications addressing specific operational contexts that would be considered routine engineering adaptations. The PTD's variations represent logical extensions of known spinal fusion technologies using standard design modification techniques.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,224 |
|---|---|
| Title | Bone plate |
| Assignee(s) | Innovasis Inc. |