Intelligent Bodily Fluid Sampling Systems with Enhanced Contamination Control
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The invention integrates fluid control devices with advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, blockchain, and nanomaterials to create a more efficient, secure, and contamination-free bodily fluid sampling process.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent, 'Fluid control devices and methods of using the same,' addresses the issue of contaminants in bodily fluid samples. However, the inventive concept disclosed here takes a significant leap forward by incorporating synergistic combinations of distinct technologies to further minimize contamination risks, enhance sample integrity, and streamline the sampling process.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a fluid control device, which diverts an initial volume of bodily fluid, integrated with an artificial intelligence module to predict and minimize contamination risk. The system may also utilize blockchain technology to securely track and verify the integrity of the sample procurement process. Additionally, an IoT-enabled sensor can be integrated to monitor and control fluid flow, temperature, and pressure during the sampling process. Furthermore, the fluid diversion device may feature a nanomaterial-based coating to reduce microbial adhesion and biofilm formation. The inventive concept also encompasses a method for reducing contamination in bodily fluid samples by using a fluid control device and integrating a machine learning algorithm to identify and adapt to changing contamination risk patterns.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a synergistic combination of advanced technologies, which is not obvious from the original patent. The integration of AI, IoT, blockchain, and nanomaterials with fluid control devices provides a non-obvious solution to the problem of contamination in bodily fluid samples.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include integrating computer vision with the fluid control device to visually inspect the sampling process, using other types of sensors or materials to enhance contamination control, or incorporating additional machine learning algorithms to improve the predictive capabilities of the system.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the healthcare industry, particularly in the areas of infectious disease diagnosis, blood banking, and pharmaceutical research. The market for bodily fluid sampling devices is expected to grow, driven by the increasing need for accurate and reliable diagnostic testing.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device engineering, specifically bodily fluid sampling technologies with a focus on contamination reduction techniques. Requires expertise in microfluidics, medical instrumentation, and infection control protocols.
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced degree, 3-5 years professional experience, familiar with fluid control systems, microbial contamination mitigation strategies, and emerging medical technologies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that integrating digital technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain with existing fluid control devices represents a predictable extension of known medical device innovation strategies. The core fluid sampling mechanism remains fundamentally consistent with the source patent, while the proposed technological enhancements represent standard approaches to improving diagnostic reliability and process tracking. These technological integrations would be considered routine optimization within medical device engineering practice.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,321 |
|---|---|
| Title | Fluid control devices and methods of using the same |
| Assignee(s) | Magnolia Medical Technologies, Inc. |