Strap Attachment and Orthopedic Device for Specialized Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A novel strap attachment and orthopedic device designed for specific, high-stakes environments, such as high-security facilities, disaster relief situations, extreme weather conditions, search and rescue operations, and space-constrained environments.
Background and Problem Solved
Orthopedic devices often require specialized features to operate effectively in unique environments. The original patent disclosed a strap attachment assembly for attaching a strap to a device, but it lacked adaptability for extreme conditions. This inventive concept addresses the need for a strap attachment and orthopedic device that can withstand and perform optimally in high-stress, specialized environments.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a strap attachment assembly with a tamper-evident feature and a reinforced cable for high-security facilities. In disaster relief situations, the strap attachment assembly includes a quick-release mechanism for rapid strap securing. For extreme weather conditions, the retainer is weather-resistant, and the cable features a water-repellent coating. In search and rescue operations, the strap attachment assembly incorporates shock-absorbing material for rugged terrain use. In space-constrained environments, the strap attachment assembly is compact, and the cable has a reduced diameter for adjustability. These specialized variations enable the orthopedic device to operate effectively in diverse, high-stakes environments.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The inventive concept's novelty lies in its adaptability to specific, high-stakes environments through the incorporation of unique features, such as tamper-evident mechanisms, quick-release mechanisms, weather-resistant materials, shock-absorbing materials, and compact designs. These features, in combination, provide an inventive step beyond the original patent's disclosure.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include using different materials for the retainer and cable, incorporating additional sensors for monitoring environmental conditions, or integrating the strap attachment assembly with other safety features, such as GPS tracking or emergency alerts. Variations may also include adapting the strap attachment assembly for use in other specialized environments, such as space exploration or high-altitude operations.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in industries such as healthcare, emergency services, search and rescue operations, and specialized manufacturing. The ability to provide orthopedic devices that can operate effectively in high-stakes environments addresses a critical need in these industries, offering a competitive advantage and potential for significant market share.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F5/0125 |
| A | A61 | A61F2005/0144 |
| A | A61 | A61F2005/0167 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Orthopedic device design and biomechanical engineering, focusing on strap attachment mechanisms for supportive medical devices, with expertise in material science, mechanical engineering, and ergonomic design
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or mechanical design specialist with 3-5 years of experience in orthopedic device development, familiar with modular attachment systems, material adaptations, and environmental performance requirements
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill would recognize that the source patent's fundamental strap attachment mechanism provides a versatile framework for environmental and functional adaptations. The PTD's variations represent predictable engineering modifications using known techniques of material selection, geometric adjustment, and specialized feature integration. These adaptations would be considered routine problem-solving within the orthopedic device design domain, leveraging standard design principles of modularity and context-specific optimization.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,450 |
|---|---|
| Title | Strap attachment and orthopedic device using the same |
| Assignee(s) | Ossur Iceland ehf |