Environmental Monitoring and Water Quality Testing System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A system that adapts the core technology of a blood sequestration device to monitor environmental contaminants in water sources, detect microplastics, track aquatic invasive species, and monitor waterborne pathogens in recreational water bodies.
Background and Problem Solved
The original blood sequestration device patent addressed the problem of contaminated blood samples in medical settings. However, the limitations of this technology did not consider its potential applications in environmental monitoring and water quality testing. The new inventive concept addresses the need for efficient, safe, and reliable water sampling and analysis in various aquatic ecosystems.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new system comprises a modified blood sequestration device adapted for underwater sampling, which automatically retracts and safely houses a sharpened distal tip of a needle following isolation of an initial water sample and collection of a subsequent water sample. The device is designed to collect water samples from various aquatic ecosystems, including rivers, lakes, and oceans. The samples are then analyzed using spectroscopy, PCR, or other analytical techniques to detect microplastics, track aquatic invasive species, and monitor waterborne pathogens.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of the blood sequestration device technology to environmental monitoring and water quality testing, which is non-obvious and unexpected compared to the original patent. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the device for underwater sampling and the integration of analytical techniques for detecting various environmental contaminants.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the system could include modifications to the device for sampling in different aquatic environments, such as shallow or deep waters, or for collecting samples from sediments or biota. Variations could also include the integration of additional analytical techniques, such as machine learning-based algorithms for data analysis or remote sensing technologies for real-time monitoring.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The environmental monitoring and water quality testing system has significant commercial potential in various industries, including environmental consulting, water treatment, and research institutions. The system could be marketed as a portable, reliable, and efficient solution for monitoring water quality, enabling early detection of environmental contaminants and informing data-driven decision-making.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device engineering and environmental sampling technologies, with expertise in fluid sampling systems, needle retraction mechanisms, and analytical sampling techniques
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with advanced degree in biomedical engineering or environmental science, experienced in designing sampling devices, understanding mechanical interfaces, and applying sampling technologies across different domains
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the core mechanical principles of blood sequestration devices are readily adaptable to environmental sampling contexts. The fundamental needle retraction and sample isolation mechanisms are technically transferable between biological and environmental fluid sampling systems. The PTD demonstrates a straightforward technological translation that leverages existing mechanical design principles with predictable engineering modifications.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,320 |
|---|---|
| Title | Blood sequestration device and method |
| Assignee(s) | Smiths Medical ASD, Inc. |