Multi-Joint Flexion Technology for Diverse Industries
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept extends the core technology of the original Triple Flexion Device to new applications and use cases, including athletic performance enhancement, balance and coordination improvement, robotic limb development, spinal cord injury rehabilitation, and fatigue reduction in repetitive tasks.
Background and Problem Solved
The original Triple Flexion Device addressed the limitations of existing devices in facilitating hip, knee, and ankle flexion during the swing phase of walking, particularly for individuals with paralysis of the lower extremity. However, its potential applications were limited to the medical field. The new inventive concept solves the problem of restricted applicability by adapting the core technology to diverse industries, unlocking its full potential.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept involves the adaptation of the Triple Flexion Device's core technology to various industries and use cases. For athletic performance enhancement, the device is designed to facilitate flexion of at least three joints during a stride, providing athletes in high-impact sports with improved mobility and agility. For balance and coordination improvement, the device is worn on a limb, providing hip, knee, and ankle flexion during a swing phase of movement. In robotic limb development, the triple flexion mechanism is adapted to provide hip, knee, and ankle flexion in a robotic leg, controlled by a microprocessor. For spinal cord injury rehabilitation, the device is configured to provide hip, knee, and ankle flexion during a swing phase of walking, controlled by an electroencephalography (EEG) interface. Finally, for fatigue reduction in repetitive tasks, the device is powered by a piezoelectric material, providing hip, knee, and ankle flexion during a swing phase of movement.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept's novelty lies in its adaptation of the Triple Flexion Device's core technology to diverse industries and use cases, which was not originally considered. The inventive step is the recognition of the potential for this technology to be applied beyond the medical field, combined with the specific design and implementation details for each new application.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in the wearable device's design, materials, and control systems. For example, the device could be integrated into clothing or shoes, or use artificial intelligence to adapt to individual users' needs. Additionally, the core technology could be applied to other joints or limbs, or used in conjunction with other assistive technologies.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The new inventive concept has significant commercial potential across various industries, including sports equipment, healthcare, robotics, and manufacturing. The target market includes athletes, individuals with spinal cord injuries, robotic developers, and companies seeking to improve worker productivity and reduce fatigue.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F5/0113 |
| A | A61 | A61F5/0102 |
| A | A61 | A61F5/0106 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Assistive medical devices and biomechanical motion assistance technologies, specifically focused on joint flexion and mobility enhancement for human and robotic systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or rehabilitation technology specialist with expertise in orthopedic device design, biomechanical motion analysis, and adaptive assistive technologies, possessing knowledge of mechanical engineering, human anatomy, and assistive device principles
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the core triple flexion mechanism disclosed in the source patent represents a fundamental biomechanical solution that can be readily adapted across multiple domains. The technical principles of joint flexion assistance are transferable between medical rehabilitation, athletic performance, and robotic systems. The PTD demonstrates predictable variations that extend the original device's core functionality through known engineering adaptation techniques.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,395 |
|---|---|
| Title | Triple flexion device |