Expanding Pulse Oximetry Technology to New Industries

The inventive concept leverages the core technology of the original patent to develop novel applications in environmental monitoring, food safety, athletic performance tracking, water quality monitoring, and industrial process control.

The original patent, 'System and method for monitoring the life of a physiological sensor', addressed the critical need for accurate oxygen monitoring in medical applications. However, this technology has broader implications and can be adapted to solve pressing problems in various industries. The inventive concept tackles these new challenges by applying the core pulse oximetry technology to non-medical fields, thereby expanding its reach and impact.

The new inventive concept involves adapting the pulse oximetry sensor assembly to measure oxygen levels in diverse environments, such as air, water, and food packaging. This adaptation enables the development of novel systems and methods for monitoring environmental air quality, detecting food spoilage, tracking athletic performance, monitoring water quality, and controlling industrial processes. The inventive concept incorporates the original patent's sensor use monitoring and alerting features to ensure the reliability and longevity of these new applications.

The inventive concept introduces a new and non-obvious application of pulse oximetry technology, shifting its focus from medical uses to a wide range of industrial and consumer applications. This expansion of the technology's scope constitutes a significant inventive step, as it requires a deep understanding of the original patent's core principles and their adaptation to new domains.

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include wearable devices for tracking oxygen levels in extreme environments, such as high-altitude mountaineering or deep-sea diving. Variations could also involve integrating the pulse oximetry technology with other sensing modalities, like temperature or humidity sensors, to create more comprehensive monitoring systems.

The inventive concept has significant commercial potential across various industries, including environmental monitoring, food safety, athletic performance tracking, water quality monitoring, and industrial process control. The target market includes government agencies, industries, and consumers seeking innovative solutions for monitoring and controlling oxygen levels in diverse environments.