Enhanced Orthopedic Device with Rotational Alignment Adjustment
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An innovative orthopedic device featuring adjustable rotational alignment of positive-locking elements, enhancing stability, safety, and customization for users.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent (Orthopedic device) described an orthopedic device with a joint and positive-locking elements. However, the device lacked the ability to adjust the rotational alignment of these elements, leading to potential misalignment and reduced stability. The new inventive concept addresses this limitation by introducing a system for adjusting the rotational alignment of the positive-locking elements, ensuring enhanced stability, safety, and customization for users.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced orthopedic device features a joint with a first joint element and a second joint element, each comprising a positive-locking element. A sensor detects misalignment between the positive-locking elements, and a motor rotates the elements into alignment. The safety device incorporates a guide spindle with frontal recesses and/or projections, which is displaceable in the axial direction, allowing for fine-tuned adjustment. The device also features spur gearwheels on the positive-locking elements, enabling smooth engagement and rotation. Furthermore, the device includes a system for customizing the fit to a wearer's body, utilizing the rotational alignment adjustment and a sensor to detect the wearer's body shape and size.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept introduces the novel feature of adjustable rotational alignment of positive-locking elements, which is not present in the original patent. This innovation provides a significant improvement in stability, safety, and customization, making the device more effective and user-friendly.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of different types of sensors, motors, or gear mechanisms. Additionally, the device could be adapted for use in various orthopedic applications, such as knee or elbow support, or integrated with other technologies, like wearable sensors or AI-powered feedback systems.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced orthopedic device has significant commercial potential in the healthcare and medical industries, particularly in the fields of orthopedics, physical therapy, and rehabilitation. The device's ability to provide customized support and stability could appeal to a wide range of users, from individuals with chronic back pain to athletes and workers in physically demanding occupations.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F5/0102 |
| A | A61 | A61F2005/016 |
| A | A61 | A61F2005/0158 |
| A | A61 | A61F2005/0165 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Orthopedic support devices, specifically biomechanical joint assistance systems with positive-locking mechanisms for body support and movement assistance
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or mechanical design specialist with expertise in orthopedic device design, familiar with joint mechanisms, sensor integration, and adaptive mechanical systems
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that adding sensor-driven rotational alignment and motor-based adjustment to the existing orthopedic joint mechanism represents a predictable engineering solution for improving device performance and user customization. The core mechanical principles of the source patent's joint and positive-locking elements provide a clear technical foundation for implementing more sophisticated alignment and adjustment technologies. The proposed variations represent incremental improvements using standard mechatronic design techniques well-known in assistive device engineering.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,446 |
|---|---|
| Title | Orthopedic device |
| Assignee(s) | Ottobock SE & Co. KGAA |