Intelligent Femoral Nail System with Integrated Sensors and Analytics
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A novel femoral nail system that combines advanced sensing, AI-powered analytics, and blockchain-based tracking to optimize fracture treatment and patient outcomes.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a set screw assembly for intramedullary intertrochanteric fracture fixation devices. However, these devices lacked real-time monitoring capabilities, AI-driven insights, and secure tracking features. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by integrating distinct technologies to create a more powerful and effective system.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The intelligent femoral nail system comprises a femoral nail with an angulated opening for receiving a neck screw, a set screw assembly with a sensor module for monitoring bone density, and a communication module for transmitting data to a remote server. The system may also include an AI-powered analytics module to predict optimal screw placement and torque settings, and a blockchain-based tracking module for verifying the authenticity and origin of the femoral nail and set screw assembly. The nanomaterial-based coating on the proximal portion of the set screw assembly enhances biocompatibility and reduces the risk of infection. The system can be customized using machine learning algorithms to generate personalized designs for femoral nails and set screw assemblies optimized for individual patients' needs.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce the integration of sensors, AI-powered analytics, blockchain-based tracking, and nanomaterial-based coatings, which are not present in the original patent. These synergistic combinations provide a novel and non-obvious solution for optimizing fracture treatment and patient outcomes.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include the use of different sensing modalities, such as acoustic or optical sensors, or the integration of additional AI-powered features, such as predictive analytics for potential complications. Variations may also include the use of different materials or coatings for the femoral nail and set screw assembly.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The intelligent femoral nail system has significant commercial potential in the orthopedic industry, particularly in the treatment of femoral fractures. The system's ability to provide real-time monitoring, AI-driven insights, and secure tracking features can improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance the overall quality of care.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/744 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/8897 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Orthopedic surgical implants, specifically intramedullary nail systems for fracture fixation, requiring advanced mechanical engineering, biomedical device design, and materials science expertise
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or orthopedic surgical device designer with advanced degree, 5-10 years experience in medical device development, familiar with surgical implant technologies, sensor integration, and materials engineering
Obviousness Rationale
A skilled practitioner would recognize that integrating sensor technologies, data analytics, and advanced materials into existing femoral nail designs represents a predictable technological evolution. The fundamental mechanical structure of the set screw assembly remains consistent with the source patent, while the proposed enhancements represent incremental improvements using known techniques in medical device design. The proposed variations leverage standard engineering approaches to enhance functionality without fundamentally altering the core mechanical principles of the original invention.
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 |