Reusable Dual Durometer Polymeric Devices for New Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept expands the core technology of reusable dual durometer polymeric devices to various new industries and use cases, including water quality monitoring, agricultural produce inspection, biological sample analysis, environmental pollutant detection, and industrial material defect detection.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a reusable menstrual discharge collection device with a dual durometer polymeric structure. However, the limitations of the original patent lie in its specific application to feminine hygiene. The present inventive concept addresses this limitation by applying the core technology to entirely new industries and use cases, thereby increasing the technology's versatility and value.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept involves adapting the reusable dual durometer polymeric device to collect and analyze samples in various industries. For instance, in water quality monitoring, the device can be configured to detect changes in water samples based on durometer hardness. Similarly, in agricultural produce inspection, the device can detect contaminants by analyzing changes in durometer hardness. The device's flexible hinge and catch section made of different durometer materials enable it to effectively collect and analyze samples in these new applications.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The novelty of the present inventive concept lies in its application of the reusable dual durometer polymeric device to entirely new industries and use cases. The inventive step is the recognition that the core technology can be adapted to address specific problems in these new industries, thereby creating new value and opportunities.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include modifying the device's shape, size, and material composition to suit specific industry requirements. For example, a device for industrial material defect detection could be designed with a more robust structure and higher durometer hardness to withstand harsh industrial environments.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The present inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including water quality monitoring, agricultural produce inspection, biological sample analysis, environmental pollutant detection, and industrial material defect detection. The market for these applications is substantial, with a growing need for innovative solutions to address specific industry challenges.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F5/4553 |
| A | A61 | A61F5/4404 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Biomedical engineering and polymeric device design, specifically focusing on flexible medical and sampling devices with multi-durometer material configurations
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or materials scientist with expertise in polymer molding techniques, medical device design, and understanding of material properties and manufacturing processes for flexible sampling and collection devices
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the core technological innovation of a dual durometer polymeric device with flexible structural elements can be readily adapted across multiple technical domains by applying standard design principles and material science knowledge. The fundamental concept of using different material hardnesses to create functional variations is a well-established engineering approach that can be systematically translated between applications. The source patent's core technological framework provides a clear template for extending the device's utility to other sampling and collection contexts.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,455 |
|---|---|
| Title | Reusable dual durometer polymeric menstrual discharge collection device |