Orthopedic Locking Screw for Diverse Industrial Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept applies the core technology of the original orthopedic locking screw to new industries, including wind energy, aerospace, solar energy, cycling, and construction, providing innovative solutions for securing components in these fields.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent's orthopedic locking screw is limited to orthopedic procedures. However, the need for reliable and efficient fastening systems exists in various industries. The new inventive concept addresses this limitation by adapting the core technology to secure components in diverse industrial applications, solving the problem of inadequate fastening solutions in these fields.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept utilizes the same core principles of the original orthopedic locking screw, including the shaft, casing, and drive member. However, the inventive concept is adapted to accommodate various industrial applications. For instance, in wind energy, the locking screw secures wind turbine blades to the hub, ensuring efficient energy generation. In aerospace, the locking screw is used to assemble spacecraft panels, providing a reliable and efficient fastening solution. Similarly, in solar energy, the locking screw secures solar panels to roofs, while in cycling, it secures bicycle frames to wheels. In construction, the locking screw is used to secure beams to piers, enabling the efficient construction of bridges.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept's novelty lies in its application to diverse industrial applications, which was not originally considered in the orthopedic locking screw patent. The inventive step involves adapting the core technology to accommodate the unique requirements of each industry, resulting in innovative solutions that address specific fastening challenges.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include varying the shaft's cross-sectional profile, thread pitch, or material to suit specific industrial applications. Additionally, the drive member could be modified to accommodate different drive tools or methods. These variations would ensure broad conceptual coverage and adaptability to diverse industrial requirements.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including wind energy, aerospace, solar energy, cycling, and construction. The market demand for innovative fastening solutions in these fields is substantial, and the inventive concept's adaptability and reliability make it an attractive solution for companies seeking to improve their products and manufacturing processes.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/725 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/8042 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/863 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/866 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/8635 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/8685 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/686 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/8057 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/8655 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Orthopedic and industrial fastening systems, with expertise in mechanical engineering, materials science, and precision joining technologies across medical, aerospace, energy, and structural applications
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A mechanical engineer with advanced degree and 5-7 years experience in fastener design, familiar with material properties, mechanical stress transfer, and cross-industry adaptation of joining technologies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental screw design principles from the orthopedic locking screw patent are universally applicable across diverse industrial contexts. The core mechanical functionality of shaft engagement, load transfer, and secure retention remains consistent regardless of specific application domain. Modifying thread geometry, cross-sectional profile, and material composition represents standard engineering design adaptation well within ordinary skill capabilities.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,227 |
|---|---|
| Title | Orthopedic locking screw for an orthopedic fastening system |
| Assignee(s) | Stryker European Operations Holdings LLC |