Fluid Flow Optimization Systems for Industrial Processes

Publication ID: 24-11857407_0002_PTD
Published: October 28, 2025
Category:New Applications & Use Cases

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “Fluid Flow Optimization Systems for Industrial Processes,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11857407_0002_PTD, Published October 28, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11857407_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. 11,857,407.

Summary of the Inventive Concept

This inventive concept leverages the core technology of implantable intraluminal devices to optimize fluid flow in various industrial processes, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs.

Background and Problem Solved

The original patent addressed implantable medical devices for bodily cavities, organs, and vessels. However, industrial processes, such as chemical plants, oil wells, and HVAC systems, face distinct fluid flow challenges. Current solutions often result in clogging, pressure drops, and inefficient flow rates. This inventive concept adapts the stent graft technology to tackle these specific problems, providing a novel solution for industrial fluid flow optimization.

Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept

The inventive concept involves deploying stent graft devices in industrial pipelines, ducts, or wells. Each device features multiple tubular segments, each with an individual annular stent member and a tubular membrane. At least one flow channel is disposed at the peripheral wall of the stent graft device, enabling fluid communication and flow control. The system can be configured to monitor and control fluid flow, optimize flow rates, and reduce pressure drops. In oil wells, the system prevents clogging, while in HVAC systems, it reduces pressure drop and improves efficiency.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The inventive concept's novelty lies in its application of stent graft technology to industrial fluid flow optimization, addressing a previously unexplored field. The inventive step resides in the adaptation of the original patent's design to accommodate the unique demands of industrial processes, such as high-pressure and high-flow rate environments.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments may include using different materials for the stent graft device, varying the number and configuration of tubular segments, or integrating sensors and actuators for real-time flow control. Variations could also involve applying this technology to other industrial processes, such as water treatment or food processing.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including chemical processing, oil and gas, HVAC, and agriculture. By optimizing fluid flow, companies can reduce energy consumption, increase efficiency, and minimize downtime. The market for industrial fluid flow optimization solutions is substantial, with potential applications in new installations, retrofits, and aftermarket services.

CPC Classifications

SectionClassGroup
A A61 A61F2/07
A A61 A61F2/04
A A61 A61F2/852
A A61 A61F2/88
A A61 A61F2/89
A A61 A61F2002/041
A A61 A61F2002/075
A A61 A61F2240/001
A A61 A61F2250/0065
Y Y10 Y10T29/49826

Field of Art

Medical device engineering and biomedical fluid flow systems, with expertise in implantable tubular devices, stent graft technologies, and fluid management across medical and industrial applications

Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile

A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced degree, knowledge of materials science, fluid dynamics, and experience in designing implantable medical devices with complex geometrical configurations

Obviousness Rationale

A PHOSITA would recognize that the fundamental structural principles of the source patent's stent graft device - helically arranged membranous strips, fluid flow channels, and modular tubular configurations - are directly transferable to industrial fluid management contexts. The core technological innovation of creating controlled fluid pathways through strategic membrane and support member design is universally applicable across medical and industrial domains. The PTD merely extends the source patent's core mechanical principles to alternative implementation environments.

Obvious Combinations & Variations

Source Patent Element
Helically arranged membranous strip with unsupported edges defining fluid flow channels
PTD Variation
Applying the helical membrane design to industrial pipeline flow control systems
Obviousness Reasoning
Known technique of adapting medical device geometries to alternative technical domains with predictable fluid management results
Source Patent Element
Overlapping turns that impede tissue ingrowth while maintaining fluid communication
PTD Variation
Using similar overlapping configurations to prevent clogging in oil wells and industrial pipelines
Obviousness Reasoning
Predictable solution for managing fluid flow and preventing particulate accumulation using established geometric principles
Source Patent Element
Tubular member with individual support and membrane components
PTD Variation
Modular stent graft design applied to HVAC and irrigation systems with multiple tubular segments
Obviousness Reasoning
Finite design solution for creating adaptable fluid management systems using known modular configuration techniques
Source Patent Element
Fluid communication through strategically designed channel configurations
PTD Variation
Integrating flow monitoring and control mechanisms in industrial process pipelines
Obviousness Reasoning
Obvious extension of existing fluid pathway design principles to include sensing and control functionalities
Source Patent Element
Implantable device with configurable geometric parameters
PTD Variation
Adapting material selections and segment configurations for different industrial environments
Obviousness Reasoning
Design choice based on known material science principles and predictable engineering adaptations
35 U.S.C. § 103 Summary: Based on US Patent 11857407's teachings, the present disclosure demonstrates that a person having ordinary skill in medical device and fluid management engineering would find the industrial applications of stent graft technologies obvious and predictable. The disclosed variations represent straightforward technological translations that do not rise to the level of non-obvious innovation, thereby establishing robust prior art against potential future patent claims in industrial fluid management systems.

Original Patent Information

Patent NumberUS 11,857,407
TitleImplantable intraluminal device
Assignee(s)W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.