Acoustically Transparent Window for Specialized Intraluminal Ultrasound Imaging
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An acoustically transparent window adapted for specific, niche operational environments, enhancing intraluminal ultrasound imaging capabilities in high-temperature, disaster relief, high-security, extreme weather, and remote or resource-constrained settings.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed an acoustically transparent window for intraluminal ultrasound imaging devices. However, these devices were not designed to operate in extreme or specialized environments, limiting their applicability. The new inventive concept addresses this limitation by adapting the acoustically transparent window for specific, niche operational environments.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept comprises an acoustically transparent window made of heat-resistant materials, durable materials, or other specialized materials, depending on the specific operational environment. For high-temperature environments, the window is designed to withstand temperatures above 100°C. In disaster relief scenarios, the window is part of a deployable intraluminal ultrasound imaging device. For high-security applications, the window is integrated into a system that encrypts and transmits ultrasound data to a secure server. In extreme weather conditions, the window is part of a waterproof and shock-resistant housing. In remote or resource-constrained areas, the window is part of a portable, solar-powered intraluminal ultrasound imaging device.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept's novelty lies in its adaptation of the acoustically transparent window for specific, niche operational environments, providing a non-obvious solution to the limitations of the original patent. The inventive step resides in the selection and implementation of specialized materials and designs that enable the window to operate effectively in these environments.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of different materials, such as advanced polymers or ceramics, or the integration of additional features, such as temperature control or vibration dampening. Variations could include adapting the window for use in other specialized environments, such as high-radiation or high-vibration settings.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including healthcare, disaster relief, and security. The market for specialized intraluminal ultrasound imaging devices is expected to grow, driven by the increasing demand for advanced medical imaging and diagnostic capabilities in diverse operational environments.
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 imaging technologies, specifically intraluminal ultrasound devices with specialized acoustic windows, involving biomedical engineering, materials science, and diagnostic medical instrumentation
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer with expertise in ultrasound device design, materials selection, and medical imaging technologies, holding advanced degrees in bioengineering or medical device engineering with 3-5 years of specialized experience
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill would recognize that the source patent's fundamental acoustic window design can be readily adapted to specialized environments by selecting appropriate materials and modifying the device configuration. The core technological principles of acoustic transparency, flexible imaging devices, and intraluminal deployment remain consistent across the PTD's variations. A PHOSITA would understand that material selection and environmental adaptation represent standard engineering design choices within predictable technological parameters.
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. |