Adaptive Lacrimal Systems for Niche Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A lacrimal system device and methods for delivering drugs to the eye, sinuses, and/or periocular tissues in specialized environments, such as high-altitude, disaster relief, high-security, extreme weather conditions, and search and rescue operations.
Background and Problem Solved
The original lacrimal system patent addressed the challenges of ocular and respiratory disease management, but it lacked adaptability for unique operational environments. This inventive concept adapts the lacrimal system for specific, narrow markets, overcoming the limitations of the original patent in these contexts.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a lacrimal system device with a reservoir balloon and a tube having at least a first lumen and a second lumen. The device is adapted for use in specialized environments, including high-altitude environments, disaster relief settings, high-security environments, extreme weather conditions, and search and rescue operations. The adaptations include features such as low atmospheric pressure resistance, tamper-evidence, freezing temperature resistance, and compact, lightweight designs. The device delivers controlled amounts of medication to the eye, sinuses, and/or periocular tissues, addressing specific needs in these environments.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The inventive concept's novelty lies in its adaptability for niche environments, which is not addressed in the original patent. The inventive step is the incorporation of environment-specific features that enable the lacrimal system to operate effectively in these unique contexts.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in the reservoir balloon material, tube geometry, and flow-limiting plug design to accommodate different environmental conditions. Additionally, the device could be integrated with other medical devices or sensors to enhance its functionality.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has potential commercial applications in the medical device industry, particularly in the areas of ophthalmology, emergency response, and environmental medicine. The target markets include high-altitude regions, disaster relief organizations, high-security facilities, and search and rescue teams.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F9/00772 |
| A | A61 | A61F9/0017 |
| A | A61 | A61M37/00 |
| A | A61 | A61M31/002 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device design for ophthalmic and drug delivery systems, specifically focused on lacrimal system interventions with expertise in biomedical engineering, materials science, and controlled drug delivery mechanisms
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced degree, working knowledge of fluid dynamics, material properties, drug delivery technologies, and environmental adaptation strategies for medical devices
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that adapting the fundamental lacrimal drug delivery system to specialized environmental conditions represents a predictable variation using known engineering design principles. The core mechanism of drug delivery remains consistent with the source patent, while environmental adaptations represent standard design modifications within medical device engineering. The variations demonstrate routine problem-solving by applying known material science and device design techniques to extend the original invention's utility.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,461 |
|---|---|
| Title | Lacrimal system for drug delivery |
| Assignee(s) | The Regents of the University of Colorado, a body corporate |