Flow Monitoring in Industrial Processes
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
Applying non-invasive flow monitoring technology to industrial processes, enabling real-time monitoring and optimization of fluid flow in various industries.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a non-invasive flow monitoring technology for medical applications. However, the limitations of this technology prevented its application in industrial settings, where fluid flow monitoring is crucial for process optimization, safety, and efficiency. The new inventive concept addresses this limitation by adapting the core technology to industrial processes, providing a solution for real-time fluid flow monitoring and optimization.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept involves the use of a light source and a light sensor to detect patterns of constructive and destructive interference in light emitted from a fluid conduit. This technology is adapted for industrial applications by configuring the light source and sensor to accommodate various fluid conduit sizes, materials, and operating conditions. The system can be integrated into existing industrial infrastructure, providing real-time data on fluid flow properties, such as flow rate, pressure, and temperature.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of the non-invasive flow monitoring technology to industrial processes, which is non-obvious compared to the original medical application. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the technology to accommodate the unique requirements of industrial settings, including the ability to operate in harsh environments and integrate with existing infrastructure.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept include the use of different light sources, such as LEDs or lasers, and various sensor configurations to accommodate different fluid conduit sizes and materials. Additionally, the system could be integrated with machine learning algorithms to predict fluid flow patterns and optimize process efficiency.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including chemical processing, oil and gas, wind energy, geothermal power, and desalination. The technology can improve process efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance safety in these industries, providing a competitive advantage to companies that adopt it.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Optical flow measurement and interference pattern detection across biomedical and industrial sensing technologies, involving optical engineering, fluid dynamics, and non-invasive measurement techniques
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A technical professional with expertise in optical sensing, signal processing, and measurement systems, capable of adapting sensing technologies across different domains with knowledge of interference-based measurement principles
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the fundamental optical interference measurement technique disclosed in the source patent can be readily adapted to industrial fluid flow monitoring by applying equivalent optical principles across different measurement contexts. The core technological mechanism of coherent light illumination and interference pattern detection remains consistent, with only contextual modifications required for different environmental conditions. The systematic translation of a medical flow monitoring approach to industrial applications represents a predictable technological extension within the optical sensing domain.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,301 |
|---|---|
| Title | Non-invasive flow monitoring |
| Assignee(s) | VERILY LIFE SCIENCES LLC |