Modular, Adaptive, and Integrated Robotic Medical Instrument Systems
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The disclosed inventive concept envisions a next-generation medical instrument system that integrates modular, detachable, and sterilizable end effectors with advanced robotic arms, real-time imaging and sensing capabilities, and adaptive control systems to revolutionize minimally invasive medical procedures.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a medical instrument with mechanical interlock for cauterizing tissue. However, the limitations of this design include the lack of modularity, adaptability, and real-time feedback, resulting in reduced precision, flexibility, and efficacy in various medical procedures. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing a paradigm shift in medical instrument design, enabling more efficient, effective, and personalized treatments.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a modular, detachable, and sterilizable end effector module, a robotic arm configured to interchangeably receive and deploy the end effector module, and a control system for coordinating the robotic arm and the end effector module during a medical procedure. The system integrates real-time imaging and sensing data to dynamically adjust the robotic medical instrument's movement and orientation during the procedure. The control system is designed to adapt to different medical procedures and instruments, ensuring seamless integration and maximum versatility.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel, modular, and adaptive design that overcomes the limitations of the original patent. The inventive concept's key innovations include the integration of real-time imaging and sensing capabilities, the use of modular and detachable end effectors, and the adaptive control system, which collectively provide a significant improvement in precision, flexibility, and efficacy over existing medical instrument systems.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept may include variations in the design of the end effector module, such as incorporating different types of sensors or imaging modalities. Other variations may involve the use of different robotic arm configurations or control systems, or the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to further enhance the system's adaptability and precision.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the fields of minimally invasive surgery, robotic-assisted surgery, and medical imaging. The target market includes hospitals, clinics, and medical research institutions, with potential applications in various medical specialties, such as laparoscopy, urology, and cardiology.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Robotic and laparoscopic medical instrumentation, with expertise in mechanical design, electromechanical integration, and surgical instrument control systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced degree, 3-5 years experience in robotic surgical systems, familiar with mechanical interlocks, end effector design, and minimally invasive surgical technologies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's modular instrument system represents a predictable extension of the source patent's mechanical interlock design, leveraging known techniques in robotic medical instrumentation to create a more flexible and adaptable surgical platform. The core mechanical principles of interchangeable end effectors and precise robotic control are inherently suggested by the source patent's detailed mechanical configuration. The incremental additions of real-time sensing and adaptive control represent logical technological progressions within the existing design framework.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,279 |
|---|---|
| Title | Medical instrument with mechanical interlock |
| Assignee(s) | Auris Health, Inc. |