Intelligent Hand Hygiene Optimization System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A next-generation touchless automatic dispensing station apparatus, system, and method that leverages advanced sensing, data analytics, and personalized dispensing to revolutionize hand hygiene in public settings.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent addressed the need for touchless automatic dispensing stations for liquid personal hygiene products. However, it had limitations in terms of detecting individual hand sizes and hygiene needs, leading to inefficient product dispensing and potential waste. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by integrating advanced sensing and data analytics capabilities to optimize hand hygiene in public settings.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept comprises a touchless automatic dispensing station apparatus with a sensing module that detects a person's hand approaching the dispensing module and determines their hand size and hygiene needs. The dispensing module then dispenses a personalized quantity of the product based on this data. The system also includes a central server that receives data from multiple stations and provides real-time feedback on hand hygiene compliance. Additionally, the system can be integrated with wearable devices that track hand hygiene compliance and provide insights for improvement. The modular design of the station allows for easy replacement of components, and the self-cleaning mechanism ensures continuous operation.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce the concept of personalized dispensing based on individual hand sizes and hygiene needs, which is a significant departure from the original patent's one-size-fits-all approach. The integration of advanced sensing, data analytics, and wearable devices also represents a novel combination of technologies that enables real-time optimization of hand hygiene in public settings.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in sensing technologies, such as using computer vision or ultrasonic sensors instead of infrared sensors. The system could also be adapted for use in different settings, such as hospitals or schools, or integrated with existing hand hygiene monitoring systems.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The Intelligent Hand Hygiene Optimization System has significant commercial potential in the healthcare, education, and hospitality industries, where hand hygiene is critical to preventing the spread of infections. The system's ability to optimize product dispensing and provide real-time feedback on hand hygiene compliance can help reduce costs and improve public health outcomes.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A47 | A47K5/1217 |
| A | A47 | A47K5/1204 |
| A | A61 | A61L2/0088 |
| A | A61 | A61L2/26 |
| A | A61 | A61L2202/14 |
| A | A61 | A61L2202/15 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Touchless hygiene product dispensing systems, encompassing sensor-based liquid dispensing technologies, hygiene monitoring, and automated personal care equipment with expertise in infrared sensing, fluid dynamics, and electronic control systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled practitioner with advanced engineering background in mechanical and electrical systems, familiar with sensor technologies, fluid dispensing mechanisms, and IoT integration for personal hygiene applications
Obviousness Rationale
A person of ordinary skill would recognize that the PTD's personalized dispensing and data tracking represent predictable extensions of the source patent's touchless dispensing framework. The core technological infrastructure of automated liquid dispensing remains fundamentally consistent, with the PTD introducing incremental improvements in sensing and data collection that would be apparent to a skilled practitioner. The modular design and sensing enhancements represent logical technological progressions within the established touchless dispensing domain.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,127 |
|---|---|
| Title | Rapid touchless automatic dispensing station apparatus, system, and method |
| Assignee(s) | Newco Enterprises, Inc. |