The USPTO granted the patent for a robot that includes a base and a plurality of tool-receiver units arranged as separate units and independently and interchangeably attachable to the base.

Hingham, Massachusetts–based Microbot said in a news release that it considers this patent significant as it potentially enables the adaptation of its Liberty surgical robotic system for a wider range of endovascular procedures. This would increase the total addressable market for the company. The patent also expands Microbot’s IP protection in the U.S. for the Liberty portfolio. It now includes 12 global patents, with 57 applications pending.

According to the company, the patent supports innovation and customization for different clinical needs. This enables Microbot to address other indications and increase its potential customer base.