Coherent Illumination for Fluid Flow Monitoring in Diverse Industries
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept applies the core technology of non-invasive flow monitoring to novel applications in water treatment, gel/emulsion processing, fluid reservoir management, chemical reactions, and food processing, enabling accurate and real-time fluid flow detection in these industries.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent's non-invasive flow monitoring technology, initially designed for biomedical applications, has limitations in its scope and versatility. This inventive concept addresses the need for a more comprehensive and adaptable fluid flow monitoring solution, capable of operating in various industries and environments.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept involves the use of coherent illumination to detect fluid flow properties in diverse industries. This is achieved through the implementation of laser illumination and light sensor detection in systems and methods tailored to specific applications. For instance, in water treatment, the technology can be used to monitor fluid flow in conduits, while in gel/emulsion processing, it can detect flow properties in the material itself. Similarly, in fluid reservoir management, chemical reactions, and food processing, the technology can be adapted to suit the unique requirements of each industry.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a significant inventive step by applying the core technology to entirely new industries and use cases, demonstrating a non-obvious expansion of the original patent's scope. The novel combination of coherent illumination and fluid flow detection in these diverse applications provides a unique solution to the specific challenges faced by each industry.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of different wavelengths or light sources, varying sensor configurations, or the integration of additional components to enhance system performance. Variations may also involve adapting the technology for use in other industries or applications, such as aerospace, oil and gas, or pharmaceuticals.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including water treatment, food processing, chemical manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals. The technology's ability to provide accurate and real-time fluid flow detection can lead to improved process efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced product quality. The target market is estimated to be substantial, with potential customers including industrial manufacturers, processing plants, and research institutions.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Optical flow measurement and non-invasive sensing technologies, encompassing biomedical instrumentation, fluid dynamics, and optical interference detection systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled practitioner with expertise in optical sensing, laser technologies, interference pattern analysis, and fluid flow measurement techniques, typically holding an advanced degree in physics, electrical engineering, or biomedical engineering with 3-5 years of specialized experience
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the core optical interference detection methodology from the source patent can be readily adapted to multiple industrial fluid flow monitoring applications by applying standard optical sensing principles. The fundamental technique of coherent illumination and interference pattern detection represents a generalizable approach that can be systematically translated across different fluid environments and measurement contexts. The PTD demonstrates predictable extensions of the original non-invasive flow monitoring concept by maintaining the core technological framework while varying the specific application domain.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,301 |
|---|---|
| Title | Non-invasive flow monitoring |
| Assignee(s) | VERILY LIFE SCIENCES LLC |