Synergistic Hyperspectral Imaging System for Enhanced Surgical Guidance
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A novel system integrating hyperspectral imaging with AI, IoT, blockchain, and nanomaterials to provide real-time, quantitative, and depth-resolved surgical guidance, enhancing tumor localization and surgical outcomes.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent addressed the limitations of traditional surgical imaging methods, but the new inventive concept takes it a step further by synergistically combining hyperspectral imaging with other distinct technologies to provide a more comprehensive and accurate surgical guidance system.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The system consists of a hyperspectral imaging device integrated with an AI-powered tumor detection module, utilizing machine learning algorithms to analyze hyperspectral images and provide real-time tumor localization and depth estimation. Additionally, the system incorporates blockchain technology to securely store and manage patient data and imaging results, IoT-enabled sensors to monitor surgical site conditions, and a nanomaterial-based sensor array to enhance the sensitivity and specificity of the imaging device. The system also features edge computing and AI-powered analytics to process imaging data in real-time, providing augmented reality visualization of surgical site anatomy and tumor localization.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a synergistic combination of hyperspectral imaging with AI, IoT, blockchain, and nanomaterials, which is not obvious from the original patent and provides a novel and non-obvious solution for enhanced surgical guidance.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include integrating the hyperspectral imaging device with other AI-powered modules, such as computer vision or natural language processing, or utilizing different types of sensors or nanomaterials to enhance the system's capabilities.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The synergistic hyperspectral imaging system has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the areas of surgical oncology, neurosurgery, and orthopedic surgery, with potential applications in hospitals, clinics, and research institutions.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical imaging and surgical guidance technologies, specifically hyperspectral fluorescence and reflectance imaging systems with a focus on tumor detection and surgical navigation
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical imaging specialist with expertise in optical imaging, machine learning, sensor technologies, and surgical navigation systems, holding advanced degrees in bioengineering, medical physics, or related fields
Obviousness Rationale
A person of ordinary skill would recognize that integrating AI, IoT, and advanced sensor technologies into existing hyperspectral imaging systems represents a predictable and incremental improvement to surgical guidance technologies. The source patent's foundational work in quantitative fluorescence imaging provides a clear technical framework that would naturally invite technological enhancements using contemporary computational and sensing approaches. The PTD's variations represent logical extensions of the original patent's core imaging and localization methodologies.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,317 |
|---|---|
| Title | Method and apparatus for quantitative and depth resolved hyperspectral fluorescence and reflectance imaging for surgical guidance |
| Assignee(s) | The Trustees of Dartmouth College, UNIVERSITY HEALTH NETWORK |