Expanding Neuromodulation Technology to New Industries
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept leverages the core technology of neuromodulation element deployment monitoring and control to develop innovative solutions for various industries, including agriculture, wind energy, manufacturing, environmental pollution, and building energy efficiency.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent focused on neuromodulation for medical applications, but its underlying technology has broader implications. This inventive concept addresses the limitations of the original patent by applying its core technology to entirely new fields, solving problems such as inefficient irrigation systems, suboptimal wind turbine performance, and inadequate environmental pollution monitoring.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a neuromodulation element deployed within various industrial settings to monitor and control key parameters in real-time. In agricultural irrigation systems, the neuromodulation element adjusts water flow based on impedance measurements. In wind turbines, it monitors and adjusts blade pitch and yaw. In industrial manufacturing processes, it adjusts production parameters. In environmental pollution monitoring, it adjusts treatment parameters. In building energy efficiency, it adjusts energy consumption. This technology enables real-time optimization and improved performance in these industries.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of neuromodulation technology to non-medical fields, which is non-obvious and unexpected given the original patent's focus on medical applications. The inventive step lies in recognizing the potential of neuromodulation technology to solve problems in diverse industries.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments could include deploying the neuromodulation element in other industrial settings, such as oil and gas exploration, aerospace engineering, or construction. Variations could include using different types of sensors or algorithms to optimize performance in each industry.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
This inventive concept has significant commercial potential, as it can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance performance in various industries. The target markets include agriculture, renewable energy, manufacturing, environmental services, and building management, with potential for widespread adoption and growth.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B18/1492 |
| A | A61 | A61N1/36057 |
| A | A61 | A61N1/36139 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00267 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00404 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00434 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00511 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00577 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00875 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00898 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/144 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/1475 |
| A | A61 | A61N1/0551 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Biomedical engineering and sensor-based control systems, with expertise in neuromodulation technologies, impedance measurement, and adaptive deployment systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled practitioner with advanced degrees in biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, or related fields, possessing knowledge of sensor technologies, signal processing, and adaptive control systems
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental similarity between medical neuromodulation deployment techniques and industrial sensing/control applications. The core technological principles of impedance-based measurement, real-time parameter adjustment, and adaptive element deployment are directly transferable across different technical domains. The source patent's sophisticated deployment monitoring methodology provides a clear technological framework that can be systematically adapted to various industrial contexts.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,249 |
|---|---|
| Title | Devices, systems, and methods for monitoring and/or controlling deployment of a neuromodulation element within a body lumen and related technology |
| Assignee(s) | Medtronic Ireland Manufacturing Unlimited Company |