Adaptive Acoustically Transparent Windows for Specialized Ultrasound Imaging Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept relates to an adaptive acoustically transparent window for intraluminal ultrasound imaging devices, designed to operate effectively in various niche environments, including high-security settings, disaster relief scenarios, extreme weather conditions, high-altitude environments, and underwater environments.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed an acoustically transparent window for intraluminal ultrasound imaging devices. However, these devices were not specifically designed to operate in unique operational environments, such as high-security settings or extreme weather conditions, which may require specialized designs and materials to ensure effective ultrasound imaging. The present inventive concept addresses this limitation by providing an adaptive acoustically transparent window that can be tailored to specific niche environments.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The adaptive acoustically transparent window is designed to be integrated with an intraluminal ultrasound imaging device, comprising a flexible elongate member and an ultrasound imaging assembly disposed at the distal end. The window is configured to withstand various environmental conditions, such as high-security protocols, extreme temperatures, high-altitude pressures, and water pressure. The window's material and design may be adjusted depending on the specific operational environment. For instance, in high-security environments, the window may be made of a reinforced material to prevent unauthorized access. In disaster relief scenarios, the window may be designed to be more durable and resistant to harsh conditions. In extreme weather conditions, the window may be made of a temperature-resistant material to maintain acoustic transparency. In high-altitude environments, the window may be designed to withstand high pressures while maintaining its acoustic properties. In underwater environments, the window may be made of a material that can withstand water pressure while allowing for effective ultrasound imaging.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The present inventive concept is novel and non-obvious compared to the original patent because it provides an adaptive acoustically transparent window that can be tailored to specific niche environments, which is not addressed in the original patent. The inventive step lies in the design and material selection of the window to withstand various environmental conditions, which enables effective ultrasound imaging in unique operational environments.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept may include using different materials or designs for the acoustically transparent window, such as using nanomaterials or metamaterials to enhance the window's acoustic properties. Other variations may include integrating the window with additional sensors or devices to enhance the imaging capabilities in specific environments.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The present inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including medical devices, disaster relief, and underwater exploration. The adaptive acoustically transparent window can be used in a range of applications, from medical imaging in high-security environments to underwater ultrasound imaging for marine life research. The market potential is substantial, with opportunities for licensing and partnerships with companies operating in these industries.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B8/12 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/445 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/4477 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/4494 |
| G | G01 | G01S7/52085 |
| G | G01 | G01S15/8906 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device engineering, specifically intraluminal ultrasound imaging technologies, involving advanced materials science, biomedical engineering, and diagnostic imaging systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with expertise in catheter-based imaging technologies, materials engineering, and ultrasound signal transmission, typically holding a master's or doctoral degree with 3-5 years of specialized experience
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill would recognize that the source patent's fundamental design of an acoustically transparent window can be readily adapted to different environmental conditions by selecting appropriate materials and structural modifications. The core ultrasound imaging principles remain consistent across the disclosed variations, with material and design adjustments representing predictable engineering solutions. The PTD's proposed variations represent standard design optimization techniques well within the capabilities of a skilled practitioner in medical device engineering.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,361 |
|---|---|
| Title | Acoustically transparent window for intraluminal ultrasound imaging device |
| Assignee(s) | Koninklijke Philips N.V. |