Hinged Articulating Spacer System for Diverse Industrial Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept expands the core technology of the original patent to various industries beyond revision knee arthroplasty, leveraging the hinged articulating spacer system's versatility to address distinct challenges in agricultural irrigation, wind turbine blade repair, robotic arms, mobility enhancement for individuals with spinal cord injuries, and industrial manufacturing.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent's hinged articulating spacer system was designed specifically for revision knee arthroplasty. However, its unique properties make it suitable for adaptation to other fields where rotational motion, flexibility, and precise movement are crucial. The inventive concept addresses the limitations of existing solutions in these new fields, offering improved efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced performance.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a hinged articulating spacer system adapted for use in various industrial applications. In agricultural irrigation, the system facilitates efficient water flow by allowing rotational motion of adjacent pipeline sections. In wind turbine blade repair, the system maintains blade shape and enables rotation during repair operations. In robotic arms, the system enables precise movement and rotation. In mobility enhancement for individuals with spinal cord injuries, the system is integrated into an exoskeleton to facilitate rotational motion and improved balance. In industrial manufacturing, the system comprises a modular assembly of hinged rod assemblies to facilitate efficient transfer of materials and products between processing stations.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The inventive concept's novelty lies in its application of the hinged articulating spacer system to entirely new industries and use cases, leveraging the system's versatility and adaptability to address distinct challenges. The inventive step is the recognition of the system's potential beyond revision knee arthroplasty and its creative adaptation to these new fields.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include variations in the spacer system's design, materials, and dimensions to accommodate specific industry requirements. For instance, the system could be scaled up or down, or modified to accommodate different types of pipelines, blades, or robotic arms.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential across multiple industries, including agricultural irrigation, wind energy, robotics, healthcare, and industrial manufacturing. The target market includes companies and organizations seeking to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance performance in these sectors.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F2/3845 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/30724 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/389 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/3859 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/305 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/30677 |
| A | A61 | A61F2310/00011 |
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,424 |
|---|---|
| Title | Hinged articulating spacer system for revision knee arthroplasty |