Adaptive Load Transfer Technology for Diverse Industries
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept leverages the core technology of a load transfer assembly with a pivot arm and cam arm to create tailored actuator load outputs, applicable to various industries beyond healthcare, including agricultural harvesting, material handling, construction, marine vessel cargo handling, and search and rescue operations.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent addressed the need for efficient load transfer in hi-low beds. However, its limited scope did not consider the broader potential of this technology. The new inventive concept solves the problem of inefficient load transfer in diverse industries, providing a versatile solution for optimizing load handling and transfer.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The adaptive load transfer technology consists of a pivot arm and a cam arm, which can be integrated into various systems. In agricultural harvesting, the load transfer assembly optimizes crop collection. In material handling, it enables efficient load transfer between shelves. In construction, it streamlines load lifting and placement. In marine vessels, it facilitates cargo handling and transfer. In search and rescue operations, it enhances rescue equipment deployment. The cam surface provides a tailored actuator load output, ensuring efficient and safe load transfer in each application.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept's novelty lies in its application of the load transfer assembly to diverse industries, extending beyond the original patent's healthcare focus. The inventive step is the recognition of the technology's broader potential and its adaptation to address specific challenges in various fields.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include modifications to the pivot arm and cam arm designs, materials, or configurations to suit specific industry requirements. Variations could involve integrating sensors, automation, or AI to further optimize load transfer processes.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The adaptive load transfer technology has significant commercial potential in various industries, including agriculture, logistics, construction, maritime, and emergency services. The technology's versatility and efficiency make it an attractive solution for companies seeking to improve their load handling and transfer processes.
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 focusing on load transfer systems, particularly in adjustable mechanical platforms including medical beds, industrial equipment, and mobile machinery
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A mechanical engineer with expertise in load transfer mechanisms, actuator design, pivot systems, and cross-industry mechanical adaptations, holding at least a bachelor's degree with 3-5 years of practical experience in mechanical design and system integration
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the fundamental load transfer assembly disclosed in the source patent represents a versatile mechanical concept with broad applicability across multiple industrial domains. The core technical elements of a pivot arm, cam arm, and stationary cam surface are readily adaptable to different mechanical contexts by simply modifying the mounting points and specific load requirements. The PTD demonstrates that the load transfer mechanism's underlying principles can be systematically translated across diverse technical environments without requiring inventive complexity.
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. |