Ratchet System for Precision Applications Beyond Orthopedic Surgery
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept expands the core technology of a ratchet system for screwdrivers to novel applications in musical instrument tuning, precision agriculture, mechanical watches, robotic assembly, and dental implant placement, offering enhanced precision and efficiency in these fields.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a ratchet system for screwdrivers, primarily focused on orthopedic surgery. However, this technology has broader potential beyond its initial application. The new inventive concept addresses the limitations of the original patent by adapting the ratchet system to diverse industries, providing precise control and reliability in tasks that require accurate adjustments.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a ratchet system adapted to connect a handle or tool to a rod, allowing for precise adjustments in a predetermined rotation direction. This system can be integrated into various tools and devices, such as musical instrument tuning handles, precision agriculture irrigation valve adjusters, mechanical watch gear adjustment tools, robotic assembly fastening tools, and dental implant screw adjustment tools. The ratchet system ensures accurate and efficient adjustments, minimizing errors and maximizing productivity in these applications.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel applications of the ratchet system beyond orthopedic surgery, demonstrating a non-obvious expansion of the original technology. The inventive step lies in recognizing the versatility of the ratchet system and adapting it to address specific challenges in diverse industries.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include modifying the ratchet system for use in other precision applications, such as aerospace, optics, or biomedical research. Variations may involve changing the material, design, or operation of the ratchet system to suit specific industry requirements.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including music, agriculture, watchmaking, robotics, and dentistry. The market demand for precise and efficient adjustment tools is substantial, and the inventive concept is poised to capture a significant share of this market by offering a versatile and reliable solution.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/8875 |
| B | B25 | B25B13/463 |
| B | B25 | B25B15/04 |
| B | B25 | B25B23/0042 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00407 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Mechanical precision tools and adjustment systems, spanning medical devices, industrial tools, and precision instrumentation, with a focus on rotational adjustment mechanisms and specialized application-specific tool design
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A mechanical engineer or technical professional with expertise in tool design, mechanical systems, precision adjustment mechanisms, and cross-industry adaptation of mechanical technologies, possessing knowledge of ratchet mechanisms, rotational control systems, and interdisciplinary engineering solutions
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental ratchet system disclosed in the source patent as a versatile mechanical technology capable of adaptation across multiple precision-oriented fields. The core technical principles of directional rotation control, precise mechanical adjustment, and tool-to-rod connection are universally applicable and would suggest similar implementation strategies across diverse technical domains. The variations presented in the PTD represent predictable extensions of the source patent's core mechanical concept, utilizing standard engineering design translation techniques.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,238 |
|---|---|
| Title | Ratchet system for screwdrivers and its use |
| Assignee(s) | INNOPROD MEDICAL |