Intelligent Needle Shield Remover System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An integrated system combining a reusable needle shield remover with distinct technologies like computer vision, IoT, blockchain, and advanced materials to create a more efficient, safe, and trackable process for removing needle shields in medical settings.
Background and Problem Solved
The original needle shield remover patent addressed the need for a reusable device to remove needle shields from medicament delivery devices. However, the process still relies on manual detection and removal, which can be time-consuming and prone to human error. The new inventive concept integrates the original device with advanced technologies to automate and optimize the process, reducing the risk of needlestick injuries and improving the overall efficiency of medical procedures.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The Intelligent Needle Shield Remover System comprises a reusable needle shield remover, a computer vision module, an IoT-enabled sensor, and a blockchain-based ledger. The computer vision module detects the presence of a needle shield on a syringe and guides the needle shield remover to remove the shield. The IoT-enabled sensor detects the presence of a needle shield and sends a notification to a healthcare professional to remove the shield using the needle shield remover. The blockchain-based ledger records and verifies the removal of needle shields, ensuring accountability and transparency in the process. The system can also be integrated with 3D-printed ergonomic grips for improved user experience.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce the integration of distinct technologies like computer vision, IoT, blockchain, and advanced materials with the original needle shield remover, creating a synergistic combination that provides a more efficient, safe, and trackable process for removing needle shields. This integration is new and non-obvious compared to the original patent, as it leverages the strengths of each technology to create a more comprehensive system.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the Intelligent Needle Shield Remover System could include the use of artificial intelligence to predict and prevent needlestick injuries, the integration of RFID tags for tracking and inventory management, or the development of custom-designed needle shields with enhanced safety features. These variations would ensure broad conceptual coverage and adaptability to different medical settings and applications.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The Intelligent Needle Shield Remover System has significant commercial potential in the medical industry, particularly in hospitals, clinics, and pharmaceutical companies. The system can improve the efficiency and safety of medical procedures, reduce the risk of needlestick injuries, and provide a trackable and transparent process for removing needle shields. The market for this system is substantial, with potential applications in various medical settings and industries.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device design and safety technologies, specifically needle shield removal systems, requiring expertise in mechanical engineering, medical device ergonomics, and safety protocols
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with 3-5 years of experience, familiar with syringe technologies, safety mechanisms, and emerging digital tracking systems in healthcare
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that integrating digital technologies like computer vision and IoT with the existing needle shield remover represents a predictable extension of known medical device improvement strategies. The core mechanical functionality of the original needle shield remover remains unchanged, with digital systems merely adding monitoring and tracking capabilities. These technological additions solve known challenges in medical device safety and accountability using standard engineering approaches.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,772 |
|---|---|
| Title | Needle shield remover |
| Assignee(s) | Owen Mumford Limited |