RF Energy Sterilization: Advanced Heating Innovation
Legal Citation
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a process for sterilizing or pasteurizing packaged articles using RF energy. However, it had limitations in terms of heating efficiency, uniformity, and adaptability to varying article types and quantities. The new invention addresses these limitations by incorporating advanced features and designs to enhance the overall RF heating process.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new invention's dynamic adjustments, real-time monitoring, and optimized component designs provide a significant improvement over the original patent, offering increased efficiency, safety, and throughput. The inventive step lies in the integration of these advanced features to create a more adaptable and effective RF heating system.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the invention may include using different types of conveyance systems, such as rotary or vibrating conveyors, or incorporating additional sensors and monitoring systems to further optimize the RF heating process. Variations may also include using the invention for heating articles other than packaged goods, such as medical devices or food products.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The invention has significant commercial potential in the food processing, pharmaceutical, and medical device industries, where efficient and safe sterilization or pasteurization of packaged articles is critical. The market for RF heating systems is growing, driven by increasing demand for efficient and sustainable processing technologies.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A23 | A23L3/01 |
| A | A23 | A23L3/003 |
| A | A23 | A23L3/065 |
| B | B65 | B65G35/00 |
| B | B65 | B65G37/00 |
| H | H05 | H05B6/48 |
| H | H05 | H05B6/54 |
| H | H05 | H05B6/60 |
| H | H05 | H05B6/62 |
| H | H05 | H05B6/68 |
| H | H05 | H05B6/782 |
| H | H05 | H05B6/80 |
| A | A23 | A23V2002/00 |
| A | A47 | A47J37/045 |
| H | H05 | H05B6/46 |
| H | H05 | H05B2206/045 |
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,856,976 |
|---|---|
| Title | Contact members for packaged articles heated with radio frequency energy |