Enhanced Adjustable Nerve Probe Assembly
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An improved nerve probe assembly featuring advanced materials and mechanisms to enhance flexibility, durability, and navigation during electrical stimulation or recording, addressing limitations of existing probes.
Background and Problem Solved
The original adjustable nerve probe assembly, while effective, had limitations in terms of flexibility, durability, and navigation through tissue. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by incorporating thermally-activated shape memory alloys, self-lubricating coatings, integrated temperature sensors, detachable and reusable electrode tips, and adjustable stiffness mechanisms.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced adjustable nerve probe assembly comprises an electrical probe with a shapeable part featuring a thermally-activated shape memory alloy, allowing for enhanced flexibility and durability during surgical procedures. The probe may also include a self-lubricating coating to reduce friction and improve navigation through tissue. Additionally, an integrated temperature sensor can monitor and control tissue temperature during electrical stimulation or recording. The electrode tip can be detachable and reusable, reducing waste and improving cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, an adjustable stiffness mechanism can adapt to varying tissue types and densities, ensuring optimal performance.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel features that are not obvious from the original patent, including the use of thermally-activated shape memory alloys, self-lubricating coatings, integrated temperature sensors, detachable and reusable electrode tips, and adjustable stiffness mechanisms. These advancements provide a significant improvement over existing nerve probe assemblies, offering enhanced flexibility, durability, and navigation.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the enhanced adjustable nerve probe assembly could include the use of different shape memory alloys, varying coatings, or alternative temperature sensing technologies. Additionally, the adjustable stiffness mechanism could be implemented using different materials or designs.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced adjustable nerve probe assembly has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the fields of neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, and pain management. The improved performance and reduced waste of the new inventive concept could lead to increased adoption and market share.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Biomedical engineering, specifically surgical instrumentation for neural tissue stimulation and recording, with expertise in electrical probe design, materials science, and surgical intervention technologies
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced degree, knowledge of electrical probe manufacturing, materials properties, surgical instrument design, and familiarity with neural stimulation techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the proposed variations represent predictable engineering improvements to the existing nerve probe assembly, utilizing known materials and design techniques to enhance functionality. The modifications address inherent limitations in the original probe design through incremental technological adaptations that would be apparent to a skilled practitioner. Each proposed variation represents a straightforward extension of existing probe technology using standard engineering problem-solving approaches.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,780 |
|---|---|
| Title | Adjustable nerve probe assembly |
| Assignee(s) | ROCWorks, LLC |