Adapting Biopsy Technology for Environmental and Agricultural Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept leverages the core technology of the original biopsy device with aspiration valve to create novel solutions for environmental and agricultural monitoring, enabling more efficient and accurate sampling and analysis in these industries.
Background and Problem Solved
The original biopsy device with aspiration valve was designed for medical applications, but its innovative design and functionality can be adapted to address the limitations of current environmental and agricultural sampling methods, which often require cumbersome and expensive equipment, leading to delayed or inaccurate results. The present inventive concept solves this problem by applying the biopsy technology to create portable, efficient, and accurate sampling devices for these industries.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a biopsy device with an aspiration valve adapted for use in various environmental and agricultural applications. The device enables efficient and accurate sampling of air, water, soil, and agricultural products, allowing for real-time monitoring and analysis of contaminants, nutrients, and microbial populations. The aspiration valve ensures precise control over sample collection, while the portable design enables on-site sampling and analysis. The device can be integrated with various sensors and analytical tools to provide comprehensive data on environmental and agricultural health.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The inventive concept's novelty lies in its application of the biopsy technology to entirely new industries, overcoming the limitations of current sampling methods. The inventive step is the adaptation of the aspiration valve and biopsy device design to accommodate the unique requirements of environmental and agricultural monitoring, resulting in a novel solution that is more efficient, accurate, and cost-effective than existing methods.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in the design of the aspiration valve, the materials used for the biopsy device, or the integration of additional sensors and analytical tools. For example, the device could be modified for use in extreme environments, such as high-temperature or high-pressure applications, or designed for specific types of contaminants or analytes.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the environmental and agricultural industries, where accurate and efficient monitoring is critical for decision-making and policy development. The device could be marketed to government agencies, research institutions, and private companies involved in environmental monitoring, agricultural production, and food safety. The potential market size is substantial, with opportunities for growth in emerging markets and expanding applications.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B10/0275 |
| A | A61 | A61B10/0283 |
| A | A61 | A61B2010/0208 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical and diagnostic sampling technologies, specifically biopsy and sampling devices with precision fluid control mechanisms, encompassing medical device design, fluid dynamics, and sampling instrumentation
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with expertise in sampling technologies, fluid control systems, and interdisciplinary device adaptation, holding advanced degrees in bioengineering or medical technology with 3-5 years of practical experience
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the core aspiration valve technology from the source patent represents a generalizable sampling mechanism with broad applicability beyond medical diagnostics. The fundamental principles of precise fluid control, sample collection, and mechanical valve actuation are directly transferable to environmental and agricultural monitoring contexts. The PTD demonstrates predictable engineering adaptation by maintaining the core mechanical principles while expanding the device's functional domain.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,171 |
|---|---|
| Title | Biopsy device with aspiration valve |
| Assignee(s) | Hologic, Inc. |