Synergistic Optical Shape Sensing Systems
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present invention integrates optical shape sensing devices with distinct technologies such as AI, IoT, blockchain, and new materials to create more powerful systems for minimally invasive medical procedures, enhancing accuracy, security, and signal quality.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent, 'Optical shape sensing device with integrated force sensing region and tip integration', provides an innovative solution for shape sensing in minimally invasive medical procedures. However, it has limitations in terms of navigation, data storage, environmental awareness, and signal quality. The present inventive concept addresses these limitations by synergistically combining the original patent's technology with other distinct technologies.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept comprises an optical shape sensing device integrated with an AI-powered navigation module, a blockchain-based data storage system, an IoT-enabled sensor network, and new materials with enhanced mechanical properties. The AI-powered navigation module utilizes real-time shape sensing data to guide the device through a passage during a minimally invasive medical procedure. The blockchain-based data storage system enables secure and tamper-proof storage of shape sensing data. The IoT-enabled sensor network provides real-time environmental data to enhance shape sensing accuracy during a medical procedure. The new materials with enhanced mechanical properties improve signal quality at the distal tip of the multicore optical fiber. These synergistic combinations enable more accurate, secure, and reliable shape sensing in minimally invasive medical procedures.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept's novelty lies in the synergistic integration of distinct technologies with the original patent's optical shape sensing device. The inventive step is the recognition of the potential benefits of combining these technologies to create more powerful systems for minimally invasive medical procedures.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept may include integrating the optical shape sensing device with other AI-powered modules, such as machine learning algorithms for data analysis or predictive modeling. Variations may also include the use of different blockchain platforms or IoT-enabled sensor networks to enhance the system's functionality.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The present inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the field of minimally invasive medical procedures. The synergistic combinations of technologies can provide a competitive advantage in terms of accuracy, security, and reliability, leading to increased adoption and market share.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B34/20 |
| G | G01 | G01B11/24 |
| G | G01 | G01L1/246 |
| A | A61 | A61B2034/2061 |
| A | A61 | A61B2090/064 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Minimally invasive medical device technologies, specifically optical shape sensing systems with multicore optical fiber configurations, involving interdisciplinary expertise in biomedical engineering, optical sensing, mechanical design, and advanced signal processing
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced degrees in engineering, expertise in optical fiber technologies, familiarity with medical instrumentation, and working knowledge of emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and advanced materials
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that integrating additional technologies like AI navigation, blockchain data storage, and IoT sensor networks with an existing optical shape sensing device represents predictable combinations that enhance functional capabilities. The source patent's foundational optical shape sensing technology provides a clear technical framework for incremental technological extensions. These variations represent logical engineering improvements that would be apparent to a skilled practitioner seeking to optimize medical device performance.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,268 |
|---|---|
| Title | Optical shape sensing device with integrated force sensing region and tip integration |
| Assignee(s) | Koninklijke Philips N.V. |