Flow Control Devices for Diverse Industrial Applications

Publication ID: 24-11857406_0002_PTD
Published: October 28, 2025
Category:New Applications & Use Cases

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “Flow Control Devices for Diverse Industrial Applications,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11857406_0002_PTD, Published October 28, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11857406_0002_PTD
This technical disclosure describes improvements that would be readily apparent to a Person Having Ordinary Skill In The Art (PHOSITA) when considered in combination with the foundational architecture disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,857,406.

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

SectionClassGroup
A A61 A61F2/04
A A61 A61M16/209
A A61 A61F2002/043
A A61 A61M2205/04

Original Patent Information

Patent NumberUS 11,857,406
TitleHigh resistance implanted bronchial isolation devices and methods
Assignee(s)Pulmonx Corporation