Adaptive Stent Graft Systems for Niche Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept discloses stent graft systems tailored for specific, challenging operational environments, including high-altitude, disaster relief, compromised immune systems, and extreme weather conditions.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent describes implantable intraluminal medical devices, but these devices may not be suitable for unique operational environments. This inventive concept addresses the limitations of the original patent by providing specialized variations of stent graft systems for niche markets.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new stent graft systems comprise a primary device with a helically arranged membranous strip and a helically arranged support member. The support member is adapted to withstand extreme pressure fluctuations at high-altitude environments, and the membranous strip can be treated with a low-temperature-resistant coating or an antimicrobial coating. The systems can be deployed rapidly in emergency situations or designed for use in extreme weather conditions.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel features, such as the adaptation of the support member for high-altitude environments, the use of low-temperature-resistant coatings, and the incorporation of antimicrobial coatings. These features provide a non-obvious solution for stent graft systems in niche environments.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include stent graft systems with adjustable support members, modular designs for easy customization, or integrated sensors for real-time monitoring. Variations may also include different materials or surface treatments for the membranous strip and support member.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The adaptive stent graft systems have significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the areas of cardiovascular and peripheral vascular disease treatment. Target markets may include hospitals, clinics, and medical research institutions operating in challenging environments.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device engineering, specifically intraluminal implantable devices such as stent grafts, requiring expertise in materials science, biomedical engineering, and surgical device design with knowledge of fluid dynamics, material properties, and anatomical constraints
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced degree, 5-10 years experience in vascular implant design, familiar with material modification techniques, pressure/temperature tolerances, and surgical deployment strategies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the source patent's helical stent graft design inherently suggests adaptability through material and structural modifications. The PTD's variations represent predictable engineering solutions addressing specific environmental challenges using known techniques of material coating, structural reinforcement, and design customization. The core helical architecture remains consistent, with modifications representing standard design optimization approaches.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,407 |
|---|---|
| Title | Implantable intraluminal device |
| Assignee(s) | W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. |