Environmental and Agricultural Monitoring Systems using Implantable Sensors and Detachable Pusher Members
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept relates to novel applications of implantable sensors and detachable pusher members for monitoring environmental pollutants, tracking marine life migration patterns, controlling agricultural pests, monitoring soil moisture levels, and detecting wildfires.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent, 'Implant delivery system', primarily focused on delivering implant devices to a target site or location within the body of a patient. However, this inventive concept addresses the limitations of the original patent by exploring new applications and use cases for the core technology. Specifically, it tackles the problems of environmental pollution, inefficient agricultural practices, and inadequate natural resource management by proposing innovative monitoring systems.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a network of implantable sensors configured to detect specific parameters such as pollutants, pest populations, soil moisture levels, or temperature and humidity levels. These sensors are detachably coupled to a pusher member using a stretch-resistant tether, allowing for precise placement and detachment at predetermined locations. A heater element disposed near the distal end of the pusher member facilitates detachment of the sensors from the pusher member. This enables efficient and targeted monitoring, reducing the need for manual intervention and promoting more accurate data collection.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The novelty of this inventive concept lies in the adaptation of the original implant delivery system technology to entirely new industries and applications. The inventive step involves the integration of implantable sensors, detachable pusher members, and heater elements to create a comprehensive monitoring system for environmental and agricultural applications.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in sensor types, pusher member designs, and detachment mechanisms. For instance, sensors could be designed to detect different parameters, such as water quality or air pollution. Pusher members could be modified to accommodate different types of sensors or to operate in various environments. Detachment mechanisms could be replaced with alternative methods, such as mechanical or chemical release systems.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including environmental monitoring, agriculture, and natural resource management. The market for such monitoring systems is substantial, with growing demand for efficient and accurate data collection solutions. Potential customers include government agencies, research institutions, and private companies involved in environmental conservation, agricultural production, and natural resource management.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/12113 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/12022 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/12154 |
| A | A61 | A61B90/39 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/01 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/95 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/12068 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/011 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/9505 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/9511 |
| A | A61 | A61F2250/0071 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device delivery systems, implantable sensor technologies, and minimally invasive medical instrumentation, with expertise in mechanical design, electrical integration, and biomedical engineering
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced degree, 3-5 years experience in implantable device technologies, familiar with thermal detachment mechanisms, sensor integration, and minimally invasive delivery techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the fundamental thermal detachment mechanism and implant delivery system from US 11857196 could be readily adapted to alternative monitoring applications by substituting medical implants with environmental sensors. The core technological principles of detachable tethered devices with thermal release mechanisms remain consistent across different domains, suggesting predictable engineering extensions.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,196 |
|---|---|
| Title | Implant delivery system |
| Assignee(s) | MicroVention, Inc. |