Specialized Nuclear Medicine Imaging Systems for Niche Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept discloses specialized nuclear medicine imaging systems adapted for specific, narrow market or unique operational environments, such as disaster relief, high-security areas, extreme weather conditions, remote areas, and areas with limited power supply.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent described a SPECT system with a collimator having multi-pinholes equipped with filters. However, this system lacks adaptability to unique operational environments, limiting its applicability in various scenarios. The present inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing specialized variations of the original system, tailored to meet the specific demands of niche markets.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept encompasses five distinct embodiments: 1) a portable collimator for disaster relief, featuring filters designed to operate in high-temperature environments; 2) a method for conducting SPECT imaging in high-security areas, utilizing a collimator with integrated radiation shielding; 3) a system for extreme weather condition SPECT imaging, comprising a weather-resistant detector and a collimator with pinholes having adjustable apertures; 4) a compact, battery-powered collimator for remote areas; and 5) a method for conducting PET imaging in areas with limited power supply, employing a collimator with low-power consumption filters. These embodiments demonstrate the versatility of the original system, now adapted to cater to specific market needs.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The novelty of the present inventive concept lies in the adaptation of the original SPECT system to address the unique challenges of niche environments, thereby providing a non-obvious solution to the limitations of the original patent. The inventive step is evident in the integration of specialized components, such as high-temperature filters, radiation shielding, weather-resistant detectors, and low-power consumption filters, which enable the system to operate effectively in these environments.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept may include the use of different materials for the collimator, varying the number and pattern of pinholes, or incorporating additional features, such as cooling systems or backup power sources, to further enhance the system's adaptability to niche environments.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The present inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including healthcare, disaster relief, security, and remote area development. The specialized systems can be marketed to organizations operating in these environments, providing a unique solution to their imaging needs and enhancing their operational capabilities.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B6/5235 |
| A | A61 | A61B6/037 |
| G | G01 | G01T1/1642 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Nuclear medicine imaging systems, specifically single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) technologies, involving advanced detector and collimator design with expertise in radiation detection, medical imaging instrumentation, and specialized environmental adaptations
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A medical imaging engineer or physicist with advanced degree, working knowledge of radiation detection principles, experience designing medical imaging equipment, familiar with modular system design, and capable of adapting imaging technologies to specialized environmental constraints
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the fundamental multi-pinhole collimator architecture from the source patent provides a flexible platform for environmental adaptation. The disclosed variations represent predictable engineering modifications that address specific operational challenges by integrating known techniques like specialized filters, radiation shielding, and power management strategies. These adaptations leverage the core technological framework established in the original patent through straightforward, incremental design modifications.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,357 |
|---|---|
| Title | Imaging systems and methods |
| Assignee(s) | SHANGHAI UNITED IMAGING HEALTHCARE CO., LTD. |