Steering Input Devices for Teleoperated Robotic Systems in Non-Medical Industries
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept discloses the application of surgical instrument steering input devices to teleoperated robotic systems in various non-medical industries, including precision agriculture, autonomous underwater exploration, search and rescue operations, precision construction, and remote environmental monitoring.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent described surgical instrument steering input devices for teleoperated robotic systems in medical applications. However, these devices can be adapted and modified to address specific challenges in non-medical industries, such as crop monitoring, underwater navigation, debris-filled environment navigation, building inspection, and environmental data collection.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new claims describe the integration of surgical instrument steering input devices into teleoperated robotic systems for non-medical applications. For instance, in precision agriculture, the steering input device can be used to control a robotic system for crop monitoring and management tasks. Similarly, in autonomous underwater exploration, the input device can be used to navigate and collect data in underwater environments. The detailed design and operation of the steering input device remain similar to the original patent, with modifications to accommodate the specific requirements of each non-medical industry.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of surgical instrument steering input devices to non-medical industries, which was not originally considered. The inventive step lies in the adaptation and modification of the original device to address specific challenges in these new industries.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include modifications to the steering input device's design, materials, or operation to better suit the specific requirements of each non-medical industry. For example, the input device could be designed with waterproof materials for underwater exploration or with durable materials for search and rescue operations.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various non-medical industries, including precision agriculture, autonomous underwater exploration, search and rescue operations, precision construction, and remote environmental monitoring. The target market includes companies and organizations operating in these industries, as well as research institutions and government agencies.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Teleoperated robotic systems with precision input mechanisms, encompassing medical, industrial, and remote operation technologies. Requires expertise in mechanical engineering, control systems, and robotic interface design
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
An engineer with advanced degree in mechanical or electrical engineering, experienced in robotic system design, familiar with input mechanism technologies, and capable of adapting control interfaces across different technical domains
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the fundamental steering input device design from the surgical instrument patent can be readily adapted to other teleoperated robotic systems by modifying the interface and control parameters. The core mechanical principles of precise directional control are transferable across different operational contexts. The variations represent predictable engineering adaptations that leverage the existing technical foundation of the source patent's input mechanism design.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,284 |
|---|---|
| Title | Surgical instrument steering inputs |
| Assignee(s) | INTUITIVE SURGICAL OPERATIONS, INC. |