Advanced Thermo-Adaptive Apparel Tech Innovation
Legal Citation
Background and Problem Solved
Traditional athletic apparel items are often limited to specific environmental conditions, failing to provide adequate thermo-regulation in diverse operational environments. The original patent addressed this limitation by introducing an apparel item with a surface treatment that biases the first portion in a tensioned state and the second portion in a tension-free resting state. However, this invention has limitations in adapting to extreme weather conditions, high-security needs, or disaster relief scenarios. The present invention addresses these limitations by introducing specialized variations and niche solutions that cater to these specific environments.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The present invention introduces novel and non-obvious features and structures that adapt to specific, narrow markets or unique operational environments, providing optimized thermo-regulation for users in extreme weather conditions, high-security needs, or disaster relief scenarios. The inventive step lies in the integration of specialized features and structures that address the limitations of the original patent, thereby providing a more comprehensive and adaptive apparel system.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the invention may include variations in the type and placement of venting structures, thermal layers, and sensor modules. Additionally, the invention could be implemented using different materials, such as breathable membranes or phase-change materials, to enhance thermo-regulation. Other variations may include the integration of additional features, such as GPS tracking or biometric monitoring, to enhance the user experience and provide real-time feedback.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The present invention has significant commercial potential in various industries, including outdoor apparel, athletic wear, and protective gear. The invention's ability to adapt to specific, narrow markets or unique operational environments makes it an attractive solution for users in extreme weather conditions, high-security needs, or disaster relief scenarios. Potential market segments include search and rescue teams, military personnel, outdoor enthusiasts, and athletes competing in extreme weather conditions.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A41 | A41D13/0015 |
| A | A41 | A41D13/002 |
| A | A41 | A41D27/28 |
| A | A41 | A41D27/285 |
| A | A41 | A41D31/145 |
| A | A41 | A41D31/185 |
| A | A41 | A41D2400/10 |
| A | A41 | A41D2500/10 |
| A | A41 | A41D2500/20 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Apparel design and thermal management systems, specifically focusing on adaptive clothing technologies with emphasis on temperature regulation, ventilation, and performance wear engineering
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with expertise in textile engineering, clothing design, and thermal performance technologies, possessing knowledge of material science, garment construction techniques, and human physiological thermal responses
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's variations represent predictable extensions of the source patent's core thermo-regulatory apparel concept by applying known design strategies for environmental adaptation, sensor integration, and targeted ventilation to address specific use cases such as extreme weather and high-intensity activities.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,003 |
|---|---|
| Title | Apparel thermo-regulatory system |
| Assignee(s) | NIKE, Inc. |