Orthopedic Screw Technology for Diverse Industrial Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
Adapting the core technology of the orthopedic screw to secure and anchor various structures and devices in different industries, enabling robust and reliable connections.
Background and Problem Solved
The original orthopedic screw patent focused on fracture reduction and fixation in the medical field. However, its innovative design and functionality have untapped potential in other industries, where secure anchoring and connection are crucial. The new inventive concept addresses the need for reliable and efficient fastening solutions in various fields, such as renewable energy, marine, and construction.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept leverages the modified buttress threads and tapered transition segment of the original orthopedic screw design, adapting it for use in diverse industrial applications. The unitary shaft and head configuration enable secure anchoring and efficient rotation, providing progressively increased pressure to the connected structure or device. The new claims demonstrate the technology's versatility, with applications in wind turbine blade anchoring, solar panel securing, boat docking, climbing rope anchoring, and pipeline seabed securing.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept's novelty lies in its adaptation of the orthopedic screw technology to address specific challenges in various industries, providing a non-obvious solution to the problem of secure anchoring and connection. The inventive step is in recognizing the potential of the original design and modifying it to cater to the unique requirements of different fields.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include variations in thread geometry, shaft material, or head design to accommodate specific industry demands. For instance, the use of specialized coatings or surface treatments could enhance the screw's performance in harsh environments. Additionally, the development of custom tools or implantation methods could facilitate the adoption of this technology in various industries.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in industries such as renewable energy, marine, construction, and sports equipment. The technology's ability to provide reliable and efficient fastening solutions can lead to increased adoption, reduced costs, and improved performance in these sectors. The market for this technology is substantial, with potential applications in wind farms, solar installations, boat manufacturing, and climbing equipment, among others.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/8685 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/8625 |
| A | A61 | A61B90/06 |
| A | A61 | A61B2090/062 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Orthopedic surgical devices and anchoring technologies, encompassing medical device design, mechanical engineering, and precision fastening systems with expertise in thread geometries, material science, and load-bearing structural connections
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or mechanical engineer with advanced degrees, experience in medical device design, understanding of orthopedic implant technologies, and knowledge of material properties and mechanical load transfer mechanisms
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental design principles of the orthopedic screw's unitary shaft, modified buttress threads, and tapered transition segment as readily adaptable to diverse anchoring applications. The core mechanical functionality of providing progressive pressure and secure connection through rotational mechanics is universally applicable across multiple technical domains. The disclosed variations represent predictable engineering adaptations that leverage the source patent's core technological insights.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,236 |
|---|---|
| Title | Orthopedic screw |
| Assignee(s) | RetroFix Screws, LLC |