Infrastructure Repair and Reinforcement System

A system for repairing damaged infrastructure, sealing breaches in containment vessels, reinforcing weakened structural components, and repairing damaged pipelines, leveraging the core technology of a vascular closure device.

The original patent disclosed a vascular closure device for closing openings in blood vessels. However, the limitations of this technology did not address the need for repairing damaged infrastructure, sealing breaches, reinforcing weakened structures, and repairing damaged pipelines. The new inventive concept adapts the core technology to solve these specific problems.

The system consists of a self-expanding tubular element with a patch, a retaining element, and a pusher wire. The tubular element is designed to close holes in structural components, while the retaining element holds it in a non-fully-expanded configuration. The pusher wire extends through the lumens of both elements and, upon application of a force, pushes the tubular element out of the retaining element, allowing it to expand and close the hole. This system can be adapted for various applications, including infrastructure repair, breach sealing, structural reinforcement, and pipeline repair.

The new claims introduce a novel application of the vascular closure device technology to infrastructure repair and reinforcement, which is not obvious from the original patent. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the core technology to address specific problems in these new fields.

Alternative embodiments could include variations in the tubular element's material, shape, and size, as well as modifications to the retaining element and pusher wire. Additionally, different types of pusher wires or deployment mechanisms could be used.

The Infrastructure Repair and Reinforcement System has significant commercial potential in various industries, including construction, oil and gas, and manufacturing. The system's ability to efficiently and effectively repair damaged infrastructure, seal breaches, and reinforce weakened structures could lead to cost savings, increased safety, and reduced downtime.