Synergistic Imaging Element Cleaning Systems
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept integrates the patented imaging element cleaning apparatus with cutting-edge technologies such as AI, IoT, blockchain, and new materials to create a more powerful, efficient, and connected system for facilitating cleaning of imaging elements in medical devices.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed devices, apparatuses, systems, and methods for facilitating cleaning of an imaging element of an imaging device. However, these solutions were limited by their standalone nature, lacking integration with other technologies that could enhance their performance, reliability, and maintainability. The present inventive concept addresses this limitation by combining the patented imaging element cleaning apparatus with other distinct technologies to create a more comprehensive and effective system.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The synergistic imaging element cleaning system comprises the patented imaging element cleaning apparatus, a machine learning model for detecting contaminants on the imaging element, and a control unit for controlling the imaging element cleaning apparatus based on output from the machine learning model. Additionally, the system may include an IoT-enabled sensor for monitoring environmental conditions affecting the imaging element, a blockchain-based data storage system for tracking cleaning operations and maintenance schedules, and a cloud-based data analytics platform for analyzing sensor data and providing predictive maintenance recommendations. The system may also utilize energy harvesting systems powered by piezoelectric materials to power the rotational movement actuator. Furthermore, the system can integrate with robotic surgical systems and utilize AI-powered optimization methods to analyze data from the imaging element cleaning apparatus and generate recommendations for optimizing cleaning protocols and schedules.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The present inventive concept is novel and non-obvious in its integration of the patented imaging element cleaning apparatus with AI, IoT, blockchain, and new materials, providing a synergistic system that is more powerful, efficient, and connected than the original patent. The inventive step lies in the unexpected combination of these technologies to create a more comprehensive and effective system for facilitating cleaning of imaging elements in medical devices.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the synergistic imaging element cleaning system may include variations in the type of AI model used, the specific IoT-enabled sensors employed, the blockchain-based data storage system utilized, and the energy harvesting system powering the rotational movement actuator. Additionally, the system may be adapted for use in different medical devices, such as endoscopes, microscopes, or ultrasound machines.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The synergistic imaging element cleaning system has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the fields of surgical robotics, endoscopy, and microscopy. The system's ability to provide real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and optimized cleaning protocols can improve the reliability and efficiency of medical devices, reducing downtime and costs for healthcare providers. The market for such a system is substantial, with an estimated value of over $1 billion in the next five years.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B90/70 |
| A | A61 | A61B34/30 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device imaging systems, specifically surgical endoscopic and imaging element cleaning technologies, requiring expertise in mechanical engineering, medical device design, and advanced sensor/control systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer with advanced degree, 3-5 years experience in medical device design, familiar with surgical imaging technologies, control systems, and emerging integration techniques for medical instrumentation
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that integrating machine learning, IoT sensors, and data analytics with existing surgical imaging cleaning apparatuses represents a predictable technological evolution. The source patent establishes a foundational imaging element cleaning system, and the PTD demonstrates standard engineering approaches to enhancing such systems with contemporary digital technologies. The combinations represent logical extensions of existing technological capabilities within medical device engineering.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,382 |
|---|---|
| Title | Devices, apparatuses, systems and methods for facilitating cleaning of an imaging element of an imaging device |
| Assignee(s) | ClearCam, Inc. |