Electromagnetic Radiation-Based Sensing Technology for Non-Medical Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept leverages the core technology of the original patent to develop novel applications in non-medical fields, such as monitoring fruit ripeness, detecting food spoilage, and analyzing agricultural soil moisture, among others.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent focused on tissue ablation and assessment in the medical field. However, the limitations of this technology in terms of frequency range and signal processing capabilities hindered its adoption in other industries. The new inventive concept addresses this gap by adapting the core technology to cater to various non-medical applications, where the ability to transmit and receive electromagnetic radiation signals at high frequencies is crucial.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a device with at least one antenna configured to transmit and receive electromagnetic radiation signals having frequencies of at least 1 MHz to and from various non-medical targets, such as fruits, vegetables, food products, agricultural soil, and composite materials. The signal processing unit analyzes the received signals to determine specific parameters, such as ripeness, spoilage, moisture content, or defects. The device can be tailored to suit specific applications, including adjustments to antenna design, signal frequency, and processing algorithms.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a paradigm shift by applying the original patent's core technology to entirely new industries, solving problems that were not previously addressed. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the technology to accommodate the unique requirements of each non-medical application, demonstrating a clear departure from the original patent's medical focus.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in antenna design, such as using arrays or phased arrays, or incorporating machine learning algorithms to enhance signal processing. Other variations could involve integrating the device with existing systems, such as supply chain management or agricultural monitoring platforms, to provide a more comprehensive solution.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including agriculture, food processing, and materials science. The ability to monitor and control fruit ripeness, detect food spoilage, and analyze agricultural soil moisture can lead to increased efficiency, reduced waste, and improved product quality. Similarly, the detection of defects in composite materials can enhance the manufacturing process and reduce costs.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B18/1815 |
| A | A61 | A61B5/0093 |
| A | A61 | A61B5/05 |
| A | A61 | A61B5/0507 |
| A | A61 | A61B5/0538 |
| A | A61 | A61B18/1492 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00026 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00039 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00084 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00106 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00023 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00029 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00351 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00577 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00636 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00702 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00773 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00785 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00791 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00827 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/00875 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/1435 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/183 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/1823 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/1838 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/1846 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/1853 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/1861 |
| A | A61 | A61B2018/1892 |
| A | A61 | A61B2090/065 |
| A | A61 | A61B2218/002 |
| A | A61 | A61B2576/023 |
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,253 |
|---|---|
| Title | Tissue ablation and assessment system and method of use thereof |
| Assignee(s) | The Johns Hopkins University |