Enhanced Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An innovative system for treating osteoarthritis of the knee, integrating advanced features to enhance stability, comfort, and user experience.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed methods and apparatus for treating osteoarthritis of the knee, but it had limitations in terms of adjustability, user feedback, and overall comfort. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing customizable unloading of the knee joint, real-time stress level monitoring, and advanced strap tension adjustment mechanisms.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The Enhanced Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment System comprises a knee brace with an adjustable hinge assembly, allowing users to customize the unloading of the knee joint according to their specific needs. A built-in sensor monitors the knee joint's stress levels and provides real-time feedback to the user, enabling them to adjust the brace for optimal comfort and support. The system also features a dynamic force strap with a push-button mechanism for easy adjustment of strap tension. Additionally, a wraparound sleeve with a built-in cooling system reduces inflammation and discomfort, while a Y strap unloading feature distributes the force of the knee joint across multiple points.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel features such as adjustable hinge assemblies, real-time stress level monitoring, and advanced strap tension adjustment mechanisms, which are not present in the original patent. These features provide a significant improvement in user experience, comfort, and overall effectiveness of the treatment system.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the Enhanced Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment System could include modular designs for easy replacement of worn or damaged components, self-tightening mechanisms for secure fit, and machine learning algorithms for personalized recommendations on strap tension and hinge adjustment.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The Enhanced Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment System has significant commercial potential in the orthopedic device industry, particularly in the treatment of osteoarthritis. The system's advanced features and improved user experience make it an attractive solution for healthcare providers, patients, and athletes seeking effective and comfortable treatment options.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F5/0125 |
| A | A61 | A61F5/0123 |
| A | A61 | A61F5/0106 |
| A | A61 | A61F5/0109 |
| A | A61 | A61F2005/0139 |
| A | A61 | A61F2005/0146 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Orthopedic medical devices, specifically knee braces and support systems for osteoarthritis treatment, requiring expertise in biomechanical engineering, medical device design, and rehabilitation technology
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or orthopedic device designer with advanced degree, 3-5 years experience in medical device development, familiar with knee biomechanics, materials science, and adaptive support technologies
Obviousness Rationale
A person skilled in the art would recognize that the PTD's variations represent predictable incremental improvements to the existing knee brace technology disclosed in the source patent. The additional features like sensor integration, cooling systems, and modular design are logical extensions of known orthopedic device design principles. These modifications represent standard engineering problem-solving approaches to enhancing user comfort and device functionality.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,448 |
|---|---|
| Title | Methods and apparatus for treating osteoarthritis of the knee |
| Assignee(s) | Otto Bock Healthcare LP |