Adaptable Surgical Instrument Steering Inputs for Specialized Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept adapts surgical instrument steering inputs for specific, narrow markets or unique operational environments, such as high-security needs, disaster relief, or extreme weather conditions, enhancing the versatility and effectiveness of teleoperated robotic systems.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent for surgical instrument steering inputs provides a foundation for teleoperated robotic systems. However, these systems may not be suitable for specialized environments, where security, extreme weather conditions, or limited infrastructure pose unique challenges. This inventive concept addresses these limitations by adapting the steering input devices to meet the specific demands of these environments.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The adapted surgical instrument steering inputs incorporate advanced encryption protocols, extreme weather-resistant materials, and portable energy sources to enable secure and reliable operation in high-security, disaster relief, or extreme weather conditions. The system includes a teleoperated robotic system, surgical instruments with steering input devices, and a communication device for establishing a secure communication link. The input devices are designed to operate in low atmospheric pressures, high temperatures, and humidity, ensuring optimal performance in diverse environments.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The inventive concept's novelty lies in its adaptation of surgical instrument steering inputs for specialized environments, introducing advanced encryption protocols, extreme weather-resistant materials, and portable energy sources to ensure secure and reliable operation. This adaptation is non-obvious compared to the original patent, as it requires a deep understanding of the specific challenges and requirements of these environments.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include adapting the steering input devices for use in underwater or space exploration environments, or integrating them with autonomous robotic systems. Variations could also include using different encryption protocols, materials, or energy sources to suit specific environments.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The adapted surgical instrument steering inputs have significant commercial potential in various industries, including healthcare, disaster relief, and aerospace. The target market includes hospitals, emergency response organizations, and research institutions operating in specialized environments, where the inventive concept's adaptability and reliability can provide a competitive edge.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Robotic surgical systems and teleoperated medical instrumentation, with expertise in mechanical design, control systems, and surgical instrument ergonomics
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or mechanical engineer with advanced degrees, experience in robotic medical device design, understanding of surgical instrument kinematics, communication protocols, and environmental adaptation techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that adapting surgical instrument steering inputs for specialized environments represents a predictable engineering variation of the source patent's core technology. The fundamental steering mechanism remains consistent, with modifications focused on environmental resilience and operational context. These adaptations would be considered routine design optimization within the field of surgical robotics.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,284 |
|---|---|
| Title | Surgical instrument steering inputs |
| Assignee(s) | INTUITIVE SURGICAL OPERATIONS, INC. |