Intelligent Orthopedic Screw System with AI, IoT, and Blockchain Integration
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An innovative orthopedic screw system that combines the patented cannulated orthopedic screw with AI-driven fracture analysis, IoT-enabled monitoring, and blockchain-secured data management to revolutionize fracture reduction and patient care.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a cannulated orthopedic screw and method for reducing and fixing fractures of the lateral malleolus. However, the existing solution lacked the integration of advanced technologies to optimize screw placement, monitor fracture healing, and ensure secure data management. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by synergistically combining the patented screw with AI, IoT, and blockchain technologies.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new system comprises an orthopedic screw with a unitary shaft and modified buttress threads, an AI-powered fracture analysis module, an IoT-enabled sensor for monitoring fracture healing progress, and a blockchain-secured patient data repository. The AI module analyzes patient fracture data to determine optimal screw placement, while the IoT sensor provides real-time monitoring of fracture healing. The blockchain repository ensures secure storage and management of screw implantation records and automates screw supply chain management through smart contracts.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce the novel combination of AI, IoT, and blockchain technologies with the patented orthopedic screw, providing a non-obvious solution that significantly improves fracture reduction and patient care. The inventive step lies in the synergistic integration of these technologies to create a more powerful and efficient system.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include variations in AI algorithms, IoT sensor designs, and blockchain platforms. Additionally, the system could be adapted for use in other orthopedic applications, such as spinal or joint surgeries.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The Intelligent Orthopedic Screw System has significant commercial potential in the orthopedic industry, with potential applications in hospitals, clinics, and medical research institutions. The system's advanced features and improved patient outcomes could disrupt the traditional orthopedic market and create new revenue streams.
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 technologies, specifically focusing on bone fracture reduction systems, implant design, and medical device integration with digital technologies. Requires expertise in mechanical engineering, medical device design, surgical techniques, and emerging digital health platforms
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or orthopedic surgical device specialist with advanced degrees, proficient in mechanical design, familiar with medical device regulations, and knowledgeable about emerging digital health technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that integrating digital technologies with existing orthopedic screw designs represents a natural progression of medical device innovation. The core mechanical elements of the orthopedic screw remain consistent with the source patent, while the added AI, IoT, and blockchain components represent predictable technological enhancements in medical device tracking and patient care management. The technical combinations demonstrate incremental improvements using known digital integration techniques applied to an established medical device framework.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,236 |
|---|---|
| Title | Orthopedic screw |
| Assignee(s) | RetroFix Screws, LLC |