Adaptive Material Application System for Diverse Industries
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A versatile system utilizing side shifting pucks to apply targeted segments of material to a moving web, enabling innovative solutions across various industries, including agriculture, athletics, environmental monitoring, and logistics.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed an apparatus for shaping and applying segments to a moving web with side shifting pucks, primarily focused on absorbent material applications. However, this inventive concept addresses the limitation of the original patent by exploring new industries and use cases, where the core technology can be adapted to tackle distinct challenges and opportunities.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a mobile web of sensors, absorbent material segments, or customized tracking material, which are applied to the web using side shifting pucks. This enables targeted and efficient application of materials, facilitating precision agriculture, athletic performance tracking, environmental pollutant detection, and optimized supply chain logistics. The system's adaptability and versatility make it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce an inventive step by applying the core technology of side shifting pucks to entirely new industries and use cases, such as crop yield monitoring, athletic performance tracking, and environmental pollutant detection. The novelty lies in the recognition of the potential for this technology to be adapted and scaled for diverse applications, going beyond the original patent's scope.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include using different types of materials, such as conductive or biodegradable materials, or integrating the system with other technologies, like drones or autonomous vehicles, to further enhance its capabilities. Variations may also involve adjusting the puck design or web material to accommodate specific industry requirements.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The Adaptive Material Application System has significant commercial potential across various industries, including agriculture, sports technology, environmental monitoring, and logistics. The system's adaptability and versatility make it an attractive solution for companies seeking to innovate and improve their operations, with a potential market size in the billions of dollars.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F13/15699 |
| A | A61 | A61F13/15707 |
| A | A61 | A61F13/15756 |
| A | A61 | A61F13/15764 |
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,398 |
|---|---|
| Title | Apparatus for and method of shaping and applying a segment to a moving web with side shifting pucks |
| Assignee(s) | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. |