Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy for Novel Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept leverages electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) technology to address various unmet needs in distinct industries, including water quality monitoring, agriculture, athletic performance tracking, food safety, and environmental pollution detection.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent focused on plaque rupture detection, but its EIS technology has broader potential. The present inventive concept tackles limitations of existing solutions in new fields, such as the lack of real-time water quality monitoring, inaccurate crop yield prediction, inadequate athletic performance tracking, and inefficient food spoilage detection.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new claims encompass systems and methods that adapt EIS to novel applications. For instance, Claim 1 describes a water quality monitoring system featuring an EIS sensor and communication module. Claim 2 outlines a method for predicting crop yield using EIS to measure soil moisture and nutrient levels. Claim 3 presents a wearable device for monitoring athletic performance via EIS-based sweat chemistry analysis. Claim 4 details a system for detecting food spoilage using EIS, and Claim 5 describes a method for monitoring environmental pollutants with EIS and geographic information system mapping.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The novelty of the present inventive concept lies in its expansion of EIS technology to new industries and applications, combining it with other technologies like machine learning, wireless communication, and geographic information systems to create innovative solutions. The inventive step resides in the unexpected yet effective adaptation of EIS to tackle diverse problems.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include integrating EIS with other sensing modalities, such as optical or acoustic sensors, to enhance the accuracy and robustness of the systems and methods. Variations could involve using different types of EIS sensors, such as interdigitated electrodes or nanostructured sensors, to optimize performance in specific applications.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The present inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including water treatment, agriculture, sports technology, food safety, and environmental monitoring. The market demand for innovative solutions in these areas is substantial, and the adaptability of EIS technology to address these needs positions it for widespread adoption.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Biomedical sensing technologies, specifically electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and medical diagnostic instrumentation, requiring advanced engineering and biomedical engineering knowledge with expertise in sensor design, signal processing, and medical device development
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled practitioner with a graduate degree in biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, or related field, possessing advanced knowledge of sensor technologies, signal processing techniques, and interdisciplinary medical device design principles
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the source patent's fundamental electrochemical impedance spectroscopy sensing technology provides a versatile platform for adaptation across multiple domains. The PTD's variations represent predictable extensions of the core sensing methodology by applying established EIS principles to different measurement contexts. The technical modifications involve routine engineering adaptations that would be immediately apparent to a skilled practitioner familiar with sensor technology and signal processing techniques.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,318 |
|---|---|
| Title | Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy |
| Assignee(s) | The Regents of the University of California |