Synergistic Surgical Instrument System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept integrates a helical lumen surgical instrument with advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, blockchain, and novel materials to create a more powerful and efficient system for robotic-assisted surgery.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a surgical instrument with a helical lumen, which provided improved articulation and flexibility. However, the instrument's capabilities were limited by its standalone design. The present inventive concept addresses this limitation by combining the helical lumen instrument with distinct technologies to enhance its performance, precision, and safety during robotic-assisted surgery.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The synergistic surgical instrument system comprises a surgical instrument with an end effector and a shaft assembly having a helical lumen. The system integrates a machine learning module to predict optimal articulation angles for the end effector during surgery, an IoT-enabled sensor to detect and respond to changes in the surgical environment, and a blockchain network for secure storage and analysis of tracking data. Additionally, the system incorporates a neural network-based control system to optimize articulation and movement of the end effector. The shaft assembly is composed of a novel material with enhanced strength, flexibility, and corrosion resistance.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce the concept of integrating advanced technologies with the helical lumen surgical instrument, which is novel and non-obvious compared to the original patent. The inventive step lies in the synergistic combination of these technologies to create a more powerful and efficient system for robotic-assisted surgery.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include variations in the machine learning algorithm, IoT sensor configuration, blockchain network architecture, and neural network control system. The system may also be adapted for use in different types of surgical procedures or with various types of surgical instruments.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The synergistic surgical instrument system has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the field of robotic-assisted surgery. The system's enhanced precision, safety, and efficiency make it an attractive solution for hospitals and medical centers, with potential applications in various surgical specialties.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Robotic surgical instrumentation, specifically focusing on articulating surgical instruments with complex shaft geometries and control systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with expertise in surgical robotics, mechanical design, advanced materials, and control systems, typically holding a PhD or equivalent industry experience
Obviousness Rationale
A person of ordinary skill would recognize that integrating advanced computational and sensing technologies with existing surgical instrument designs represents a predictable evolution of robotic surgical systems. The helical lumen articulation mechanism provides a natural platform for incorporating intelligent control and monitoring technologies. The proposed variations represent incremental improvements that would be apparent to a skilled practitioner seeking to enhance surgical instrument performance and data collection capabilities.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,283 |
|---|---|
| Title | Articulation joint with helical lumen |
| Assignee(s) | Cilag GmbH International |