Apparatus and Methods for Secure Debris Removal in Various Industries

The present inventive concept relates to novel applications of a secure debris removal technology, originally designed for vasculature obstruction removal, to various industries such as wind turbine maintenance, water purification, 3D printing, robotic vacuum cleaning, and fuel injector cleaning.

The original patent addressed the problem of dislodged obstructions during removal, which can lead to complications. Similarly, in various industries, debris removal poses risks of dislodgement, contamination, or clogging. The new inventive concept adapts the core technology to secure debris removal in these industries, mitigating the risks associated with dislodgement and ensuring efficient removal.

The inventive concept consists of a guide catheter, a delivery tool with an expandable member, and an optional intermediate catheter. The guide catheter is inserted into the respective industry's system (e.g., wind turbine blade, water purification system, 3D printing nozzle, robotic vacuum cleaner, or fuel injector). The delivery tool, with its expandable member, is then inserted through the guide catheter to reach the debris. The expandable member prevents the debris from dislodging during removal, ensuring a secure and efficient process. The intermediate catheter can be used to sheathe the removal tool and expandable member during insertion and guide them into position.

The new inventive concept's novelty lies in its adaptation of the original technology to diverse industries, where the problem of debris dislodgement was not previously addressed. The inventive step is the recognition of the core technology's applicability to these industries and the development of specific implementations to suit each industry's unique requirements.

Alternative embodiments may include variations in guide catheter design, expandable member materials, or intermediate catheter configurations to accommodate different industry-specific requirements. Additional variations could include integrating sensors or imaging technologies to enhance debris detection and removal.

The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including wind turbine maintenance, water purification, 3D printing, robotic vacuum cleaning, and fuel injector cleaning. The technology's ability to securely remove debris can increase efficiency, reduce downtime, and improve overall system performance, making it an attractive solution for companies operating in these industries.