Multifunctional Sensor Array for Diverse Environmental and Structural Monitoring Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A novel adaptation of the selectively configurable treatment array technology for non-medical applications, enabling versatile sensor arrays for environmental monitoring, structural health monitoring, wildfire detection, pipeline leak detection, and agricultural monitoring.
Background and Problem Solved
The original semi-circular ablation catheter patent, while effective for medical procedures, has limitations in its applicability to other industries. The new inventive concept addresses this limitation by repurposing the core technology for entirely different fields, providing a solution for diverse monitoring applications.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept leverages the selectively configurable treatment array technology to create multifunctional sensor arrays adaptable for various non-medical applications. The sensor arrays can be deployed in marine environments to detect ocean acidification, used to detect wildfires by monitoring air quality, embedded in structures for strain or stress monitoring, or utilized to detect pipeline leaks by tracking fluid flow and pressure changes. Additionally, the sensor arrays can be deployed in soil environments to monitor moisture and nutrient levels for agricultural applications. The sensor arrays' configurability enables customization for specific use cases, ensuring optimal performance and accuracy.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of the selectively configurable treatment array technology, transitioning from medical devices to diverse environmental and structural monitoring applications. This inventive step lies in the recognition of the technology's potential beyond medical procedures and the adaptation of the core concept for new, unrelated use cases.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in sensor array design, materials, and configurations tailored to specific monitoring applications. For instance, sensor arrays for environmental monitoring could be designed with corrosion-resistant materials, while those for structural health monitoring might incorporate advanced strain gauges. Additionally, the inventive concept could be integrated with other technologies, such as IoT or AI, to enhance its capabilities and expand its range of applications.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The multifunctional sensor array technology has significant commercial potential in various industries, including environmental monitoring, construction, agriculture, and oil and gas. The technology's adaptability and customizability make it an attractive solution for companies seeking to improve their monitoring capabilities, reduce costs, and enhance operational efficiency.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B18/1492 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/003 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00351 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00357 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00375 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00577 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00642 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00702 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00726 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00821 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/1407 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/1467 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/1807 |
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,250 |
|---|---|
| Title | Semi-circular ablation catheter |
| Assignee(s) | Medtronic Ablation Frontiers LLC |