Specialized Robotic Surgical Systems for Niche Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept adapts robotic surgical systems for unique operational environments, such as disaster relief, extreme weather conditions, high-security needs, remote resource-constrained environments, and search and rescue operations.
Background and Problem Solved
The original robotic surgical system patent addressed general surgical needs, but did not consider the specific challenges of operating in specialized environments. This inventive concept solves the problem of limited adaptability by designing systems that can function effectively in these niche contexts.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new claims introduce specialized variations of the original robotic surgical system. For disaster relief, the system is designed to be compact, ruggedized, and waterproof. For extreme weather conditions, the system is integrated with a weather-resistant enclosure and climate control. For high-security applications, the system incorporates biometric identification and access control, as well as encrypted data storage. For remote, resource-constrained environments, the system is portable, self-contained, and includes a renewable energy source and water purification module. For search and rescue operations, the system is integrated with navigation and sensing systems, GPS, and a communication link to a remote command center.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel adaptations of the original robotic surgical system, specifically designed for niche environments. These adaptations provide a non-obvious solution to the problem of limited adaptability, demonstrating a clear inventive step.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include further adaptations for other specialized environments, such as space exploration or underwater operations. Variations may also include different types of surgical effectors or tools, tailored to specific procedures or patient needs.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
This inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including healthcare, disaster relief, security, and search and rescue. The target market includes hospitals, medical research institutions, government agencies, and private companies operating in these specialized environments.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B50/22 |
| A | A61 | A61B34/30 |
| A | A61 | A61B34/35 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00464 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Robotic surgical systems and medical device engineering, focusing on multi-axis robotic platforms with interchangeable surgical tools and specialized environmental adaptations
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or robotics specialist with expertise in surgical robotics, mechanical design, environmental engineering, and medical device integration, holding advanced degrees in mechanical or biomedical engineering with 3-5 years of professional experience
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the source patent's fundamental robotic surgical system architecture provides a modular platform that can be readily adapted to specialized environments. The disclosed variations represent predictable extensions of the base robotic system by applying known engineering techniques for environmental adaptation, such as ruggedization, climate control, and integrated communication systems. The core robotic mechanism remains substantially unchanged, with modifications primarily addressing contextual operational requirements.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,351 |
|---|---|
| Title | Robotic surgical system and method |
| Assignee(s) | Globus Medical, Inc. |