The medical devices industry continues to be a hotbed of patent innovation. Activity is driven by increased need for homecare, preventative treatments, early diagnosis, reducing patient recovery times and improving outcomes, and growing importance of technologies such as machine learning, augmented reality, 5G and digitalization. In the last three years alone, there have been over 230,000 patents filed and granted in the medical devices industry, according to GlobalData’s report on Robotics in medical: automated orthotic devices. Buy the report here.
According to GlobalData’s Technology Foresights, which uses over 165,000 patents to analyze innovation intensity for the medical devices industry, there are 35+ innovation areas that will shape the future of the industry.
Automated orthotic devices is a key innovation area in robotics
Automated orthotic devices refer to specialized devices that use sensors and algorithms to provide support and therapy to patients with mobility issues. These devices are typically used for rehabilitation and assistive purposes and may be designed specifically for lower limb rehabilitation or for individuals with disabilities affecting their upper and lower extremities.
GlobalData’s analysis also uncovers the companies at the forefront of each innovation area and assesses the potential reach and impact of their patenting activity across different applications and geographies. According to GlobalData, there are 100+ companies, spanning technology vendors, established medical devices companies, and up-and-coming start-ups engaged in the development and application of automated orthotic devices.
Key players in automated orthotic devices – a disruptive innovation in the medical devices industry
‘Application diversity’ measures the number of applications identified for each patent. It broadly splits companies into either ‘niche’ or ‘diversified’ innovators.
‘Geographic reach’ refers to the number of countries each patent is registered in. It reflects the breadth of geographic application intended, ranging from ‘global’ to ‘local’.
Patent volumes related to automated orthotic devices
Source: GlobalData Patent Analytics
Baxter International and Asahi Kasei are two of the leading patent filers in automated orthotic devices. Some other key patent filers include ROM Technologies, Samsung Group, and Koninklijke Philips.
In terms of application diversity, Tactile Systems Technology leads the pack, while Sparq Laboratories and NEC stood in the second and third positions, respectively. By means of geographic reach, Baxter International held the top position, followed by Apollo Neuroscience and S-Alpha Therapeutics.
Automated orthotic devices offer promising and innovative solutions for individuals with mobility issues and a wide range of medical conditions. With advanced sensors, robotic technological advancements and increased accessibility, these devices can provide personalized support and assistance. With ongoing research and innovation, automated orthotic devices can be connected with healthcare providers, offering real-time data, facilitating remote care, which reduces the burden on hospitals and clinics and makes healthcare more accessible.
To further understand the key themes and technologies disrupting the medical devices industry, access GlobalData’s latest thematic research report on Robotics in Medical Devices.
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