Force Measurement Technology for Diverse Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept leverages the core technology of a force measurement system to address diverse industry challenges, including optimizing agricultural harvesting, monitoring structural integrity of bridges, tracking athletic performance, evaluating disaster response training, and optimizing manufacturing processes.
Background and Problem Solved
The original force measurement system was limited to testing and training subjects. However, the potential of this technology extends far beyond its initial application. By adapting the core technology to new industries and use cases, this inventive concept solves the problem of inefficient or ineffective practices in various fields, such as agriculture, infrastructure monitoring, sports, disaster response, and manufacturing.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a force measurement assembly, data acquisition device, and control unit or user interface, depending on the specific application. In agricultural harvesting, the system measures forces applied to crops, enabling optimal harvesting parameters. In bridge monitoring, the system detects anomalies indicative of structural damage. In athletic performance tracking, the system provides personalized performance metrics. In disaster response training, the system simulates scenarios and evaluates response effectiveness. In manufacturing process optimization, the system identifies opportunities for improvement.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel applications and use cases for the force measurement technology, which are not obvious from the original patent. The inventive step lies in adapting the technology to address specific industry challenges, resulting in improved outcomes and efficiency gains.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include customized force measurement assemblies for specific industries, integration with existing systems or infrastructure, or the use of advanced materials or sensors to enhance accuracy and reliability. Variations may involve different data analysis techniques, user interface designs, or control unit configurations to suit diverse applications.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
This inventive concept has significant commercial potential across multiple industries, including agriculture, infrastructure, sports, disaster response, and manufacturing. The market for force measurement technology in these industries is substantial, with opportunities for licensing, partnerships, and product development.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Force measurement systems and instrumentation, with expertise in sensor design, data acquisition, and multi-domain application of measurement technologies
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled engineer with advanced degree in mechanical or electrical engineering, experience in sensor systems, data processing, and cross-industry technology adaptation
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the core force measurement technology disclosed in the source patent is fundamentally adaptable across multiple domains by applying standard engineering design principles. The modular architecture of the force measurement system inherently supports reconfiguration for different use cases by substituting sensor interfaces, data processing algorithms, and user interaction models. The PTD demonstrates predictable variations that extend the source patent's core technological framework through systematic domain-specific customization.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,331 |
|---|---|
| Title | Force measurement system |
| Assignee(s) | Bertec Corporation |