Advanced Pulse Oximetry Sensor Monitoring System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An enhanced pulse oximetry system that proactively monitors sensor degradation and optimizes sensor performance, ensuring accurate and reliable physiological measurements.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent, 'System and method for monitoring the life of a physiological sensor,' provides a foundation for pulse oximetry sensor monitoring. However, the existing system has limitations, including the need for manual sensor replacement, sensor signal degradation, and inadequate diagnostic capabilities. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing advanced sensor monitoring and optimization features.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The Advanced Pulse Oximetry Sensor Monitoring System comprises a sensor assembly, a monitor, and an optional self-cleaning mechanism. The sensor assembly is configured to detect sensor degradation and transmit a signal to the monitor. The monitor receives the signal and displays a warning indicator when the degradation exceeds a predetermined threshold. Additionally, the system can adjust the sensor's operating parameters to optimize signal quality and reduce degradation. The self-cleaning mechanism can be activated to maintain sensor performance. The system also includes a replaceable optical component that can be swapped out when its optical signal quality degrades below a predetermined level.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept introduces several novel features, including the integration of a self-cleaning mechanism, a replaceable optical component, and a built-in diagnostic module. These advancements provide a significant improvement over the original patent, enabling proactive sensor monitoring, optimization, and maintenance.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the Advanced Pulse Oximetry Sensor Monitoring System could include variations in sensor design, such as using different wavelengths or emitter configurations. The system could also be adapted for use with other types of physiological sensors or integrated with other medical devices.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The Advanced Pulse Oximetry Sensor Monitoring System has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in critical care and surgical applications. The system's ability to ensure accurate and reliable physiological measurements can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical sensor technology, specifically pulse oximetry and physiological monitoring systems, requiring expertise in biomedical engineering, optical sensing, and electronic signal processing
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer with advanced degree, experienced in medical sensor design, familiar with signal processing techniques, optical sensing principles, and medical device performance optimization
Obviousness Rationale
A person of ordinary skill would recognize that the PTD's proposed sensor monitoring and maintenance techniques represent predictable extensions of the source patent's core teachings about sensor use tracking and performance monitoring. The variations introduce incremental improvements using standard engineering design approaches known in medical sensor technology. These modifications would be considered routine problem-solving within the technical domain of physiological sensor systems.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,319 |
|---|---|
| Title | System and method for monitoring the life of a physiological sensor |
| Assignee(s) | MASIMO CORPORATION |