Flow Control Devices for Diverse Industrial Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept discloses novel applications of high resistance implanted flow control devices, originally designed for pulmonary procedures, to diverse industrial fields, including geothermal energy, agricultural irrigation, chemical processing, stormwater management, and HVAC systems.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent focused on treating lung diseases, but its core technology can be adapted to address specific challenges in other industries. For instance, in geothermal energy, uncontrolled fluid flow can reduce energy extraction efficiency. Similarly, in agricultural irrigation, inefficient water distribution can lead to crop loss and waste. This inventive concept addresses these limitations by applying the flow control device to these new fields, providing innovative solutions to enhance performance, efficiency, and sustainability.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The flow control device, comprising a valve that transitions between a closed configuration blocking fluid flow in one direction and an open configuration permitting flow in the opposite direction, is adapted for use in various industrial settings. In geothermal energy, the device regulates fluid flow to enhance energy extraction. In agricultural irrigation, it optimizes water distribution based on soil moisture levels and crop requirements. In chemical processing, it prevents contamination by regulating fluid flow. In stormwater management, it slows down runoff to prevent flooding and erosion. In HVAC systems, it optimizes air flow based on temperature and humidity levels.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel applications of the flow control device, which are non-obvious and unexpected in light of the original patent's focus on pulmonary procedures. The inventive step lies in recognizing the versatility of the core technology and adapting it to solve specific problems in diverse industries.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include modifications to the valve design, materials, or operation to better suit specific industrial applications. Variations may also include integrating the flow control device with sensors, IoT technology, or AI algorithms to enhance real-time monitoring and control.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential across multiple industries, including geothermal energy, agricultural irrigation, chemical processing, stormwater management, and HVAC systems. The target market includes companies and organizations seeking to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance sustainability in their operations.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F2/04 |
| A | A61 | A61M16/209 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/043 |
| A | A61 | A61M2205/04 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device engineering and fluid control systems, with expertise in valve mechanisms, biomedical implants, and fluid flow regulation across biological and industrial systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with advanced engineering degree, experience in medical device design, fluid dynamics, and cross-domain technology adaptation, capable of recognizing fundamental design principles that can be translated across different technical domains
Obviousness Rationale
The source patent's flow control valve demonstrates a fundamental design principle of directional fluid regulation that can be readily adapted to multiple industrial contexts. A PHOSITA would recognize the core technological concept of a bi-directional valve with configurable flow resistance as universally applicable across different systems. The mechanical principles of valve operation are fundamentally consistent whether applied in pulmonary, geothermal, agricultural, or industrial contexts, making the PTD's variations predictable extensions of the original patent's core technological innovation.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,406 |
|---|---|
| Title | High resistance implanted bronchial isolation devices and methods |
| Assignee(s) | Pulmonx Corporation |