Intelligent Fracture Fixation System with Integrated Technologies
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An advanced fracture fixation system that integrates cutting-edge technologies such as IoT, AI, blockchain, and new materials to enhance bone healing outcomes and provide real-time monitoring and feedback.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent described a fracture fixation system with a plate having a laterally extending bore. However, this system had limitations in terms of real-time monitoring, supply chain tracking, and personalized feedback. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by integrating IoT, AI, blockchain, and new materials to provide a more comprehensive and effective solution.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept comprises a plate having a laterally extending bore, which is designed using AI algorithms to optimize bone healing. The plate is 3D printed using a new material having an improved strength-to-weight ratio. The system includes a sensor for monitoring bone healing, which communicates with a remote monitoring system via IoT technology to provide real-time feedback on bone healing. Additionally, the system features a blockchain-based tracking system for monitoring the origin and movement of the plate throughout the supply chain. The plate can also be integrated with a wearable device using IoT technology to monitor the patient's activity level and provide personalized feedback for optimal bone healing. Furthermore, the system includes a machine learning algorithm for predicting optimal bone healing outcomes based on patient data and surgical technique.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel and non-obvious elements such as the integration of IoT, AI, blockchain, and new materials, which provide a synergistic combination that enhances the overall functionality and effectiveness of the fracture fixation system.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in the design of the plate, the type of sensor used, the blockchain platform employed, and the machine learning algorithm utilized. Additionally, the system could be adapted for use in different types of fractures or orthopedic procedures.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The intelligent fracture fixation system has significant commercial potential in the orthopedic industry, particularly in the areas of trauma care, joint reconstruction, and sports medicine. The system's ability to provide real-time monitoring and feedback could lead to improved patient outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and increased market share for companies adopting this technology.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/82 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/80 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Orthopedic surgical devices and bone fixation technologies, specifically focusing on fracture repair systems with plate and wire configurations
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or orthopedic surgical device designer with expertise in medical device design, materials engineering, and advanced manufacturing techniques, familiar with current trends in medical technology integration
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that integrating emerging technologies like IoT, AI, and blockchain into existing fracture fixation systems represents a predictable extension of known medical device innovation. The core mechanical structure of the plate remains substantially similar to the source patent, with technological enhancements that are readily implementable by those skilled in the art. The proposed variations represent incremental improvements using well-established technological approaches in medical device design.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,232 |
|---|---|
| Title | Fracture fixation system and method |
| Assignee(s) | MEDARTIS AG |