Introducer Sheath for Diverse Industrial Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present disclosure relates to novel applications of introducer sheaths in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and wind turbine inspection, enabling precise and efficient delivery of tools, materials, and devices.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed an introducer sheath for medical devices, but its potential uses extend beyond the medical field. The new claims address the limitations of existing solutions in other industries, such as manufacturing, construction, and wind turbine inspection, where precise delivery and navigation are crucial.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises an introducer sheath adapted for use in various industries, featuring a distal end, a proximal end, a lumen, and a precision guide or nozzle formed at the distal end. In a manufacturing context, the introducer sheath facilitates precise delivery of manufacturing tools. In construction, it enables targeted delivery of construction materials. In wind turbine inspection, it allows for the introduction of inspection devices. The introducer sheath's design ensures efficient navigation and precise placement of the tool, material, or device.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce the novel application of introducer sheaths in diverse industries, overcoming the limitations of existing solutions. The inventive step lies in adapting the core technology of the original patent to address specific challenges in manufacturing, construction, and wind turbine inspection.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include adjustable precision guides, interchangeable nozzles, or introducer sheaths with integrated sensors. Variations may involve using different materials or coatings to enhance durability or reduce friction.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and wind turbine inspection. The target market includes companies seeking to improve efficiency, precision, and safety in their operations.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61M25/0668 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/221 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/3417 |
| A | A61 | A61M25/0074 |
| A | A61 | A61M25/0097 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/3415 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/3431 |
| A | A61 | A61B90/40 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/3409 |
| A | A61 | A61M2025/0681 |
| A | A61 | A61N2001/0578 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device engineering and industrial robotic systems, focusing on precision delivery mechanisms, with expertise in introducer sheaths, insertion devices, and multi-industry tool guidance systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled practitioner with advanced engineering knowledge in medical device design, mechanical engineering, and industrial robotics, capable of adapting core technological principles across different application domains
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill would recognize that the fundamental structural elements of the introducer sheath - a lumen, distal and proximal ends, and a precision guide or nozzle - are readily transferable across technical domains. The core mechanical principles of precise tool delivery remain consistent whether in medical procedures or industrial applications. The PTD demonstrates predictable variations that a skilled practitioner would find obvious by applying known engineering adaptation techniques.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,740 |
|---|---|
| Title | Introducer sheath |
| Assignee(s) | Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. |