Environmental Monitoring and Climate Tracking using Intramedullary Nails
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A novel application of intramedullary nails as sensors for environmental monitoring and climate tracking, enabling real-time data collection and analysis in various industries.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent for the set screw for femoral nail was limited to internal fixation of fractured long bones. However, the present inventive concept leverages the core technology of the intramedullary nail to address the pressing need for efficient and accurate environmental monitoring and climate tracking.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept involves adapting intramedullary nails as sensors to collect and transmit data on environmental pollutants, climate change, seismic activity, agricultural soil health, and wildlife migration patterns. The nails are configured to detect pollutants in water, air, or soil, measure temperature and humidity changes, vibrations in the earth's crust, soil moisture, pH, and nutrient levels, and track animal movement and habitat usage. The data is transmitted to a central monitoring station or provided in real-time to farmers, researchers, and policymakers.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a paradigm shift in the use of intramedullary nails, transitioning from internal fixation to environmental sensing. This inventive step lies in the unexpected application of a medical device to address critical environmental and climate-related challenges.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include using modified intramedullary nails with specialized sensors, integrating the nails with existing environmental monitoring systems, or developing new materials and manufacturing processes to enhance the nails' sensing capabilities. Variations may involve adapting the inventive concept for use in different industries, such as oil and gas exploration or construction.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including environmental consulting, climate research, agriculture, and wildlife conservation. The market demand for accurate and efficient environmental monitoring and climate tracking solutions is substantial, and the inventive concept offers a unique value proposition by leveraging the existing technology of intramedullary nails.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/744 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/8897 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device engineering, specifically orthopedic implant technologies with a focus on intramedullary nail systems and sensor integration
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer with expertise in medical device design, materials science, sensor technologies, and interdisciplinary applications of medical implants, holding advanced degrees and practical experience in orthopedic and sensing technologies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that intramedullary nails represent sophisticated mechanical structures with inherent potential for sensor integration, given their precise engineering, embedded spaces, and material compatibility. The transition from purely mechanical fixation to sensing applications represents a predictable extension of existing medical device design principles. The source patent's complex set screw assembly already demonstrates sophisticated mechanical interactions that could readily accommodate sensor integration.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,228 |
|---|---|
| Title | Set screw for femoral nail |
| Assignee(s) | Stryker European Operations Holdings LLC |