Adaptive Joint Technology for Diverse Industries
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept expands the core technology of the original orthopedic device patent to various new applications and use cases, including robotic arms, 3D printing, athletic wearables, heavy-lifting machines, and spinal injury rehabilitation.
Background and Problem Solved
The original orthopedic device patent addressed the need for support and stabilization in lifting and bending tasks. However, the inventive concept recognizes that the core technology's adaptive joint mechanism can be applied to a broader range of industries and problems, such as enhancing precision in 3D printing, providing dynamic support in athletic wearables, and improving safety in heavy-lifting machines.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new claims describe the adaptation of the original orthopedic device's joint mechanism to various new applications. In the robotic arm system, the joint provides stabilization and force transmission. In the 3D printing method, the orthopedic device is attached to the printing apparatus to enhance precision. The wearable device for athletic activities utilizes the joint to provide dynamic support. The heavy-lifting machine system incorporates the joint to prevent accidents. The rehabilitation method for spinal injuries leverages the orthopedic device to provide stabilization and support during exercises.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of the adaptive joint mechanism to diverse industries, which is non-obvious compared to the original patent's focus on orthopedic devices. The inventive step lies in recognizing the broader potential of the core technology and adapting it to address specific problems in various fields.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments could include adapting the joint mechanism to other industries, such as exoskeletons, surgical robots, or industrial automation. Variations could involve modifying the joint's materials, geometry, or actuation mechanisms to suit specific application requirements.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential across multiple industries, including robotics, 3D printing, athletic wearables, heavy-lifting machines, and rehabilitation. The market for these applications is substantial, with potential customers including manufacturers, healthcare providers, and athletes.
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
Biomechanical engineering and assistive device technologies, focusing on joint mechanisms for support and stabilization across medical, industrial, and athletic applications
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A mechanical engineer or biomedical engineer with expertise in joint design, mechanical coupling systems, and adaptive support technologies, familiar with orthopedic devices, robotic systems, and force transmission mechanisms
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental joint mechanism's versatility and understand that the core positive-locking element design can be readily adapted across multiple technical domains. The source patent's sophisticated joint technology provides a transferable framework for solving stabilization and force transmission challenges in diverse contexts. The variations represent predictable engineering extensions that leverage the original device's core mechanical principles.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,446 |
|---|---|
| Title | Orthopedic device |
| Assignee(s) | Ottobock SE & Co. KGAA |