Next-Generation Modular Humeral Prosthesis System

Publication ID: 24-11857428_0005_PTD
Published: October 28, 2025
Category:Future Evolutions & Paradigm Shifts

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “Next-Generation Modular Humeral Prosthesis System,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11857428_0005_PTD, Published October 28, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11857428_0005_PTD
This technical disclosure describes improvements that would be readily apparent to a Person Having Ordinary Skill In The Art (PHOSITA) when considered in combination with the foundational architecture disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,857,428.

Summary of the Inventive Concept

A futuristic modular humeral prosthesis system that integrates advanced technologies, such as sensors, machine learning, micro-actuators, bio-hybrid materials, and neural interfaces, to revolutionize joint replacement and rehabilitation.

Background and Problem Solved

The original modular humeral prosthesis, while effective, has limitations in terms of implant performance monitoring, customization, and dynamic optimization of joint mobility. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing cutting-edge technologies to enhance patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.

Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept

The next-generation modular humeral prosthesis system comprises a sensor-enabled anatomical rod that provides real-time monitoring of implant performance, enabling early detection of potential issues and personalized therapy. The system also features a self-adjusting epiphyseal head that dynamically optimizes joint mobility based on the patient's specific needs. Additionally, the system can utilize machine learning-based prediction of optimal retroversion angle and customized 3D-printed epiphyseal head design for personalized implantation. Furthermore, integrated micro-actuators can actively control joint movement, reducing wear and tear on the implant. The system can also incorporate bio-hybrid materials for enhanced biointegration and a neural interface for real-time feedback and control of joint movement, enabling advanced rehabilitation and personalized therapy.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The new claims introduce a paradigm shift in modular humeral prosthesis design, moving from a static, manual system to a dynamic, intelligent, and adaptive system that leverages advanced technologies to improve patient outcomes. The inventive step lies in the integration of these technologies to create a holistic system that addresses the limitations of the original patent.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of different sensor types, machine learning algorithms, or micro-actuator designs. Variations could also include the incorporation of additional features, such as artificial intelligence-powered predictive analytics or augmented reality-based rehabilitation tools.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

The next-generation modular humeral prosthesis system has significant commercial potential in the orthopedic industry, with potential applications in joint replacement, rehabilitation, and personalized medicine. The target market includes hospitals, clinics, and medical device manufacturers, with potential for expansion into emerging markets and healthcare systems.

CPC Classifications

SectionClassGroup
A A61 A61F2/4014
A A61 A61F2/30767
A A61 A61F2/4059
A A61 A61F2/40
A A61 A61F2002/3054
A A61 A61F2002/3071
A A61 A61F2002/30355
A A61 A61F2002/30428
A A61 A61F2002/30433
A A61 A61F2002/30604
A A61 A61F2002/30617
A A61 A61F2002/30774
A A61 A61F2002/30828
A A61 A61F2002/30879
A A61 A61F2002/4022
A A61 A61F2002/4051
A A61 A61F2002/4074
A A61 A61F2250/0089
A A61 A61F2250/0097

Field of Art

Orthopedic medical devices, specifically modular shoulder joint prosthesis design and surgical implantation techniques, encompassing biomechanical engineering, materials science, and surgical intervention technologies

Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile

A biomedical engineer or orthopedic medical device designer with advanced degree, expertise in biomechanical design, knowledge of surgical implantation techniques, understanding of materials compatibility, and familiarity with emerging medical technology integration strategies

Obviousness Rationale

A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's proposed technological enhancements represent predictable extensions of existing modular prosthesis design principles, utilizing known sensor, machine learning, and materials technologies to incrementally improve joint replacement functionality and patient outcomes. The proposed variations leverage standard engineering design approaches to address known limitations in existing prosthetic systems. The integration of sensors, adaptive technologies, and personalized design strategies would be considered a logical progression of existing medical device innovation paradigms.

Obvious Combinations & Variations

Source Patent Element
Modular humeral prosthesis with adjustable epiphyseal head and retroversion angle measurement
PTD Variation
Machine learning-based prediction of optimal retroversion angle and customized 3D-printed epiphyseal head design
Obviousness Reasoning
Predictable application of computational design techniques to existing prosthesis measurement and customization principles, representing an obvious technological progression
Source Patent Element
Anatomical stem with specific geometric configurations
PTD Variation
Sensor-enabled anatomical rod for real-time performance monitoring
Obviousness Reasoning
Known integration of sensor technologies into medical implants, representing a standard approach to enhancing diagnostic and monitoring capabilities
Source Patent Element
Modular prosthesis with specific mating surface configurations
PTD Variation
Bio-hybrid materials with nanocoated surfaces for enhanced tissue integration
Obviousness Reasoning
Predictable materials science approach to improving implant biocompatibility using established surface modification techniques
Source Patent Element
Surgical method for prosthesis implantation with angle measurement
PTD Variation
Neural interface for real-time joint movement feedback and control
Obviousness Reasoning
Logical extension of existing prosthetic design principles using emerging neural interface and control technologies
35 U.S.C. § 103 Summary: Based on comprehensive analysis of US Patent 11857428 and the published technical disclosure, a person having ordinary skill in the art would find the proposed technological variations obvious and predictable extensions of existing modular prosthesis design principles, thereby rendering potential patent claims covering similar technological approaches anticipated and non-patentable under standard obviousness criteria.

Original Patent Information

Patent NumberUS 11,857,428
TitleModular humeral prosthesis for an inverted shoulder prosthesis
Assignee(s)DEPUY IRELAND UNLIMITED COMPANY