Concurrent MRSI and fMRI for Industrial and Environmental Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept applies the core technology of concurrent MRSI and fMRI to various industrial and environmental applications, enabling real-time monitoring and analysis of water quality, agricultural irrigation systems, chemical reactions, commercial water usage, and aquatic ecosystems.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent addressed the limitations of MRSI and fMRI in the clinical setting, but the technology has broader applications. The new inventive concept solves the problem of inefficient monitoring and analysis in various industrial and environmental sectors by leveraging the concurrent acquisition of MRSI and fMRI data.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises an MRI scanner and an electronic processor configured to concurrently acquire MRSI and fMRI data of water samples or reaction mixtures. The MRSI data is analyzed to detect contaminants, changes in water composition, or reaction intermediates, while the fMRI data is used to monitor water flow patterns, reaction kinetics, or aquatic ecosystem dynamics. The system enables real-time monitoring, automated analysis, and data-driven decision-making in various industries.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept is novel and non-obvious in its application of concurrent MRSI and fMRI to industrial and environmental sectors, which was not considered in the original patent. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the core technology to address specific challenges in these sectors.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include using different MRI scanner configurations, modifying the electronic processor's algorithms, or integrating additional sensors to enhance data accuracy. Variations may include applying the technology to other industries, such as oil and gas or pharmaceuticals.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including water treatment, agriculture, chemical manufacturing, commercial real estate, and environmental monitoring. The target market includes companies and organizations seeking to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance environmental sustainability.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical Imaging and Spectroscopic Analysis, with expertise in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) techniques, spectroscopic data acquisition, and multi-modal imaging systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled practitioner with advanced degrees in biomedical engineering or medical physics, experienced in MRI technology, signal processing, and interdisciplinary application of imaging techniques across different domains
Obviousness Rationale
The PTD represents a straightforward extension of the source patent's core technology by applying concurrent MRSI and fMRI techniques to industrial and environmental monitoring contexts. A PHOSITA would recognize that the fundamental MRI scanning and data processing principles remain consistent across different application domains. The technical adaptations primarily involve reconfiguring the electronic processor's analysis algorithms and targeting different sample types, which would be considered routine engineering modifications.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,306 |
|---|---|
| Title | Concurrent MRSI and fMRI |
| Assignee(s) | UNM RAINFOREST INNOVATIONS |