Enhanced Imaging Element Cleaning Systems and Methods
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept relates to improved devices, apparatuses, systems, and methods for facilitating the cleaning of an imaging element of an imaging device, addressing the limitations of existing solutions by providing enhanced axial movement capabilities, self-cleaning surfaces, and advanced motion control devices.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed devices, apparatuses, systems, and methods for facilitating the cleaning of an imaging element of an imaging device. However, these solutions had inherent limitations, such as restricted axial movement and inadequate cleaning efficiency. The present inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing novel features and enhancements that improve the overall cleaning process.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced imaging element cleaning systems and methods comprise a surgical system attachment body with a self-cleaning surface, a sheath assembly with an integrated or detachable cleaning member, and a motion control device with advanced axial movement capabilities, real-time monitoring, and automated cleaning protocols. The motion control device enables efficient and precise cleaning of the imaging element, while the self-cleaning surface and modular cleaning member reduce the risk of contamination and facilitate easier maintenance. The systems and methods can be customized using a library of cleaning protocols and adaptive movement capabilities to optimize performance for specific imaging devices.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The present inventive concept introduces novel features such as self-cleaning surfaces, integrated or detachable cleaning members, advanced axial movement capabilities, real-time monitoring, and automated cleaning protocols, which are not present in the original patent. These features provide a significant improvement in cleaning efficiency, safety, and customization, making the inventive concept non-obvious and novel compared to the prior art.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept may include varying the design of the surgical system attachment body, sheath assembly, and motion control device to accommodate different imaging devices and applications. Additionally, the cleaning protocols and adaptive movement capabilities can be modified to suit specific requirements and preferences.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced imaging element cleaning systems and methods have significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the fields of endoscopy, laparoscopy, and robotic-assisted surgery. The inventive concept can improve the efficiency, safety, and effectiveness of imaging device cleaning, leading to increased adoption and market share.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B90/70 |
| A | A61 | A61B34/30 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical imaging device cleaning systems, specifically surgical endoscopic and imaging element cleaning technologies, requiring expertise in mechanical engineering, medical device design, and precision motion control systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device design specialist with advanced degrees, experience in surgical instrumentation, understanding of precision motion mechanisms, and knowledge of cleaning protocols for medical imaging devices
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's variations represent predictable engineering improvements to the source patent's core imaging element cleaning apparatus. The disclosed enhancements like self-cleaning surfaces, advanced motion control, and modular cleaning members are logical extensions of existing surgical device design principles. These modifications represent standard problem-solving approaches in medical device engineering that would be apparent to a skilled practitioner seeking to optimize imaging element cleaning performance.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,382 |
|---|---|
| Title | Devices, apparatuses, systems and methods for facilitating cleaning of an imaging element of an imaging device |
| Assignee(s) | ClearCam, Inc. |