Intelligent Nonwoven Material Transfer System with AI, IoT, and Blockchain Integration
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A novel system that integrates AI, IoT, and blockchain technologies to optimize the transfer of cut-out nonwoven material members for use in absorbent articles, enhancing efficiency, quality, and transparency.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a method for transferring cut-out nonwoven material members, but it lacked real-time monitoring, automation, and transparency. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by incorporating AI, IoT, and blockchain technologies to create a more efficient, accurate, and secure system.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The system comprises a cutting station with AI-assisted vision to detect and adjust cutting parameters in real-time, a vacuum transfer roll with IoT-enabled sensors to monitor and optimize material transport, and an absorbent article assembly line with blockchain-tracked material provenance. The AI-driven predictive modeling optimizes fiber selection, and the IoT-enabled supply chain management system tracks material sourcing and inventory. The system also includes machine learning-based defect detection, augmented reality-assisted quality control, and AI-assisted predictive maintenance.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept's integration of AI, IoT, and blockchain technologies with the original patent's method for transferring cut-out nonwoven material members constitutes a novel and non-obvious improvement, enabling real-time monitoring, automation, and transparency in the transfer process.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include the use of different AI algorithms, IoT protocols, or blockchain platforms. Variations may involve integrating the system with other technologies, such as robotics or computer vision, to further enhance efficiency and accuracy.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The intelligent nonwoven material transfer system has significant commercial potential in the hygiene and healthcare industries, enabling manufacturers to produce high-quality absorbent articles with increased efficiency, reduced waste, and improved transparency.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F13/15739 |
| A | A61 | A61F13/15723 |
| B | B26 | B26D7/1863 |
| B | B26 | B26F1/384 |
| B | B32 | B32B38/0004 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Nonwoven material processing for absorbent articles, involving material cutting, transfer, and manufacturing technologies with expertise in textile engineering, manufacturing automation, and material science
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled practitioner with advanced technical knowledge in nonwoven material processing, familiar with cutting technologies, material transport mechanisms, manufacturing automation, and emerging digital manufacturing techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that integrating AI, IoT, and blockchain technologies into the existing nonwoven material transfer method represents a predictable application of known digital transformation strategies to improve manufacturing processes. The fundamental material transfer method remains consistent with the source patent, with technological enhancements that represent incremental improvements using standard industry 4.0 approaches. The proposed variations leverage well-established technological integration techniques to enhance monitoring, efficiency, and quality control in a manner consistent with ongoing industrial digitization trends.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,399 |
|---|---|
| Title | Method for transferring one or more cut-out nonwoven material members for use in an absorbent article |
| Assignee(s) | Essity Hygiene and Health Aktiebolag |