Adaptive Neurophysiological Signal Processing for Diverse Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept expands the core technology of brain monitoring using EEG and other measurements to tackle diverse challenges in athletic performance, environmental toxin exposure, pilot mental workload, psychiatric treatment outcomes, and sleep disorders.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent focused on monitoring subjects under the influence of drugs. However, its underlying technology has broader potential. The new inventive concept addresses the limitations of the original patent by applying the core technology to entirely different industries and problems, unlocking new possibilities for improving human performance, health, and safety.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept leverages the original patent's EEG and physiological signal processing capabilities to develop novel applications. For instance, in athletic performance monitoring, the system identifies fatigue profiles to optimize training. In environmental toxin exposure detection, the method compares signals to a database of known toxin-exposure signatures. Similarly, the inventive concept is applied to pilot mental workload monitoring, psychiatric treatment outcomes prediction, and cognitive impairment detection in sleep disorders.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel applications and use cases that depart from the original patent's focus on drug influence monitoring. The inventive concept's value lies in its adaptability to diverse domains, enabled by the core technology's flexibility and the inventive step of recognizing its broader potential.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include integrating additional sensors, such as heart rate variability or skin conductance, to enhance signal processing. Variations may involve applying the inventive concept to other industries, such as education or finance, to monitor mental workload or cognitive performance.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential across various industries, including sports, healthcare, aerospace, and education. The market demand for advanced brain monitoring and signal processing technologies is growing, driven by the need for improved human performance, health, and safety.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Neurophysiological signal processing and biomedical monitoring systems, with expertise in EEG analysis, physiological sensor integration, and multi-modal signal interpretation across medical and performance domains
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or neurotechnology specialist with advanced degrees, proficient in signal processing algorithms, sensor fusion techniques, machine learning applications in physiological monitoring, and interdisciplinary technology translation
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the source patent's core technology of physiological signal acquisition and interpretation as a versatile platform adaptable to multiple domains beyond drug monitoring. The disclosed variations represent predictable extensions of the fundamental signal processing methodology, applying established EEG and multi-sensor techniques to new application contexts with minimal inventive complexity.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,334 |
|---|---|
| Title | Systems and methods for monitoring a subject under the influence of drugs |
| Assignee(s) | The General Hospital Corporation |