Load Transfer Assembly for Versatile Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept applies the core technology of the original patent to various industries, enabling the development of novel systems and methods for automating agricultural crop monitoring, optimizing warehouse storage capacity, enhancing accessibility in public transportation, improving search and rescue operations, and enhancing theme park attractions.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent addressed the need for a bed that can be moved from a low position to a high position with a load transfer assembly. However, the limitations of the original patent did not consider applying this technology to other fields. The new inventive concept solves this problem by adapting the load transfer assembly to various industries, enabling innovative solutions for real-world problems.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The load transfer assembly, comprising a pivot arm and a cam arm, is adapted to be integrated into movable platforms, shelving units, wheelchair ramps, rescue platforms, and ride platforms. The cam arm has a cam surface that is stationary relative to the movable platform and movable relative to the pivot arm, allowing for tailored actuator load output. This enables the development of novel systems and methods for automating agricultural crop monitoring, optimizing warehouse storage capacity, enhancing accessibility in public transportation, improving search and rescue operations, and enhancing theme park attractions.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept is novel and non-obvious compared to the original patent, as it applies the load transfer assembly to entirely new industries and use cases, demonstrating a significant inventive step beyond the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in the design of the pivot arm and cam arm, different materials used for the load transfer assembly, or adaptations to different types of movable platforms. Additionally, the inventive concept could be applied to other industries, such as healthcare, construction, or logistics.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential, as it enables the development of innovative solutions for various industries. The target markets include agriculture, warehousing, public transportation, search and rescue, and theme parks, with potential applications in other industries as well.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61G7/018 |
| A | A47 | A47C19/021 |
| A | A61 | A61G7/012 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Mechanical engineering focused on movable platforms, load transfer mechanisms, and adaptive positioning systems, particularly in medical, transportation, and industrial applications
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A mechanical engineer with expertise in load transfer mechanisms, mechanical linkages, and adaptive positioning systems, familiar with designing articulating platforms across multiple industries
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental load transfer assembly from the source patent as a versatile mechanical concept that could be readily adapted across different application domains. The core mechanical principles of the pivot arm and cam surface remain consistent, with only contextual modifications to suit specific industry requirements. The variations represent predictable engineering adaptations that leverage the fundamental mechanical design disclosed in the original patent.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,474 |
|---|---|
| Title | Bed that is movable from a low position to a high position with a load transfer assembly |
| Assignee(s) | GF Health Products, Inc. |