Forceps for Diverse Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
Adapting internal fixation forceps technology to enable precise manipulation and handling in various industries, including robotics, agriculture, medical devices, infrastructure inspection, and wearable rehabilitation devices.
Background and Problem Solved
The original forceps for internal fixation were limited to bone fragment manipulation in osteosynthesis procedures. However, the core technology's precision and stability can be leveraged to address specific challenges in other fields, such as micro-scale component assembly, targeted drug delivery, and infrastructure maintenance.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept involves adapting the internal fixation forceps to accommodate diverse applications. For instance, the robotic arm system utilizes the forceps assembly to hold and manipulate micro-scale components with high precision and stability. In precision agriculture, the adapted forceps enable efficient planting and nurturing of microgreens. The medical device for targeted drug delivery features a modified forceps assembly with a hollow shaft and drug reservoir. The system for inspecting and maintaining infrastructure incorporates a robotic crawler equipped with adapted forceps for grasping and manipulating objects in tight spaces. The wearable device for rehabilitation integrates a modified forceps assembly into a wearable orthosis, providing stability and support for injured limbs during physical therapy.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of internal fixation forceps technology, departing from the original osteosynthesis context. The inventive step lies in recognizing the potential of the forceps' precision and stability in addressing specific challenges in diverse industries.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include adapting the forceps for use in other industries, such as aerospace, automotive, or consumer electronics. Variations could involve modifying the forceps' materials, geometry, or actuation mechanisms to suit specific application requirements.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential across various industries, including robotics, agriculture, medical devices, infrastructure inspection, and wearable rehabilitation devices. The target market includes companies and organizations seeking to improve precision, efficiency, and safety in their respective fields.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/8866 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/808 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device engineering and robotic manipulation systems, focusing on precision gripping and multi-purpose mechanical interfaces with expertise in biomechanical design, micro-scale component handling, and adaptive mechanical systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled engineer with advanced degrees in mechanical engineering or biomedical engineering, experienced in designing precision gripping mechanisms, familiar with adaptable mechanical systems, and capable of translating specialized medical technologies into cross-industry applications
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental design principles of the internal fixation forceps as inherently adaptable to multiple precision manipulation contexts. The core mechanical attributes of controlled gripping, adjustable geometry, and stable component holding are universally applicable across technical domains. The disclosed variations represent predictable extensions of the source patent's core mechanical principles, utilizing known design translation techniques.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,237 |
|---|---|
| Title | Forceps for internal fixation |
| Assignee(s) | THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF KOREA INDUSTRY-ACADEMIC COOPERATION FOUNDATION |