Imaging Modules for Diverse Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept expands the core technology of the original imaging module patent to novel applications in surveillance, agriculture, wearables, wildlife monitoring, and infrastructure inspection, unlocking new possibilities for industries beyond medical endoscopy.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent addressed limitations in medical endoscopy, but its core technology has untapped potential. The present inventive concept solves the problem of restricted application by adapting the imaging module to diverse industries, providing innovative solutions for various use cases.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new claims introduce novel applications of the imaging module, including surveillance systems, agricultural crop monitoring, wearable devices, wildlife population monitoring, and infrastructure inspection. Each application leverages the imaging module's compact design, high-quality image capture, and efficient power supply. The inventive concept's versatility enables its integration into various systems, enhancing performance and expanding possibilities in respective fields.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims demonstrate a non-obvious expansion of the original patent's technology, as they apply the imaging module to entirely new industries and use cases, overcoming the limitations of the original patent's medical focus.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include variations in imaging module design, power supply configurations, and communication protocols to accommodate specific industry requirements. Additionally, the inventive concept could be adapted for underwater exploration, environmental monitoring, or other fields where high-quality imaging is essential.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including security, agriculture, wearables, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure inspection. The market demand for innovative imaging solutions is substantial, and the present inventive concept is poised to capture a significant share of this market.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B1/06 |
| A | A61 | A61B1/04 |
| A | A61 | A61B1/05 |
| A | A61 | A61B1/0661 |
| A | A61 | A61B1/07 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical and industrial imaging systems, specifically miniature imaging modules with integrated light emitters and solid-state image sensing devices, encompassing endoscopic, surveillance, and remote monitoring applications
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
An engineer with expertise in optical systems, electrical engineering, and miniature sensor design, possessing knowledge of imaging technologies, power supply configurations, and modular electronic design across medical and industrial domains
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the core imaging module technology from the source patent can be readily adapted to alternative domains by leveraging its fundamental design principles of compact form factor, integrated power supply, and high-quality image capture. The technical elements of the original endoscopic imaging module are inherently transferable to surveillance, agricultural, and infrastructure monitoring applications through straightforward modifications. The PTD demonstrates predictable variations that extend the original patent's technological framework into new but technically analogous contexts.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,168 |
|---|---|
| Title | Imaging module, endoscope, and catheter |
| Assignee(s) | Fujikura Ltd. |