Advanced Introducer Sheath Systems with Integrated Technologies
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept integrates the patented introducer sheath with distinct technologies, such as AI, IoT, blockchain, and new materials, to create a more powerful and efficient system for delivering elongate medical devices.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent discloses an introducer sheath for delivering medical devices, but it lacks advanced features and integration with modern technologies. The present inventive concept addresses this limitation by combining the introducer sheath with innovative technologies to enhance device performance, user experience, and data management.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The advanced introducer sheath system comprises an introducer sheath, an insertion device, and one or more integrated technologies, such as a machine learning module, blockchain-based data storage, IoT-enabled sensors, nanocoatings, shape-memory alloys, or robotic arms. These technologies enable features like optimal insertion trajectory prediction, secure data tracking, real-time feedback, and adjustable flexibility. The system provides enhanced device performance, improved user experience, and better data management.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The integration of distinct technologies with the patented introducer sheath creates a new, non-obvious system that provides significant advantages over the original patent. The inventive concept lies in the synergistic combination of these technologies, which enables a more efficient, accurate, and connected medical device delivery system.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept may include variations in the type and combination of integrated technologies, such as using computer vision instead of machine learning or incorporating additional sensors for enhanced feedback. The inventive concept can also be applied to different medical devices and procedures, ensuring broad conceptual coverage.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The advanced introducer sheath system has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in areas like minimally invasive surgeries, endoscopy, and interventional radiology. The system's enhanced features and integrated technologies can improve patient outcomes, reduce procedure times, and increase hospital efficiency, making it an attractive solution for healthcare providers and medical device manufacturers.
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, specifically interventional medical device systems for elongate device delivery, focusing on introducer sheaths, insertion devices, and minimally invasive medical procedures
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with expertise in interventional medical technologies, familiar with materials science, sensor integration, data management systems, and medical device optimization techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that integrating advanced technologies like machine learning, IoT sensors, and blockchain into the existing introducer sheath system represents a predictable evolution of medical device design. The source patent establishes a foundational medical device delivery system, and the PTD demonstrates standard engineering approaches to enhancing functionality through technological integration. The variations represent well-known techniques for improving medical device performance and data management that would be obvious to implement.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,740 |
|---|---|
| Title | Introducer sheath |
| Assignee(s) | Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. |