Modular Surgical Instrument System with Advanced Articulation Joints
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A next-generation surgical instrument system featuring modular end effectors, advanced articulation joints with helical lumens, and real-time feedback mechanisms to enhance precision, dexterity, and safety in minimally invasive surgeries.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed an articulation joint with a helical lumen, enabling improved flexibility and precision in surgical instruments. However, the design had limitations in terms of modularity, adaptability, and real-time feedback. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing modular end effectors, advanced articulation joints, and integrated sensor arrays, enabling more complex surgical maneuvers and improved tissue interaction feedback.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The modular surgical instrument system comprises interchangeable tool modules, each selectively attachable to a helical lumen shaft via a quick-release mechanism. The articulation joints feature advanced helical lumens, allowing for independent rotation and translation, and facilitating complex surgical maneuvers. The system integrates real-time feedback mechanisms, including tactile resistance and sensor arrays, to provide surgeons with enhanced precision and control. The modular design enables customization for specific surgical specialties, and the advanced articulation joints enable improved dexterity and precision.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce several novel and non-obvious features, including the modular end effector assembly, the advanced articulation joints with helical lumens, and the integrated real-time feedback mechanisms. These features enable a new level of precision, dexterity, and safety in minimally invasive surgeries, and provide a significant improvement over the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in the design of the articulation joints, such as different lumen geometries or materials, or alternative mechanisms for providing real-time feedback. The modular design could also be adapted for use in other medical specialties, such as orthopedic or cardiovascular surgery.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The modular surgical instrument system has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the areas of minimally invasive surgery and robotic-assisted surgery. The system's advanced features and customization options could appeal to a wide range of surgical specialties, and its potential for improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs could drive adoption and market growth.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Robotic and minimally invasive surgical instrumentation, with expertise in mechanical design of articulating surgical tools, biomechanical engineering, and precision medical device mechanisms
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or mechanical engineer with advanced degree, 3-5 years experience in surgical instrument design, familiar with robotic surgery technologies, articulation mechanisms, and medical device modularity principles
Obviousness Rationale
A person skilled in surgical instrument design would recognize the PTD's variations as predictable extensions of the source patent's core articulation joint technology. The modular design and helical lumen concepts represent incremental improvements using standard engineering design techniques. The integration of real-time feedback mechanisms follows established trends in medical device innovation toward enhanced surgical precision and control.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,283 |
|---|---|
| Title | Articulation joint with helical lumen |
| Assignee(s) | Cilag GmbH International |