Precision Fertilizer Dispenser for Sustainable Agriculture
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept leverages the core technology of a patient-controlled oral liquid medicine dispenser and deactivation system to develop a precision fertilizer dispenser for sustainable agriculture, enabling efficient and environmentally friendly fertilizer application.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent addressed the limitations of invasive patient-controlled liquid medication administration, but its core technology can be repurposed to tackle the pressing issue of fertilizer waste and environmental contamination in agriculture. The inventive concept solves the problem of inefficient fertilizer application, reducing waste, and promoting sustainable farming practices.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The precision fertilizer dispenser consists of a modified dosing container, adapted for fertilizer storage, and a suction apparatus, integrated with a GPS system, to dispense precise amounts of fertilizer according to soil conditions and crop requirements. The system minimizes fertilizer waste, prevents water contamination, and optimizes crop yields. The sealed waste receptacle, now configured for fertilizer containment, ensures safe disposal and prevents diversion.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a non-obvious application of the original patent's technology to the agricultural industry, providing a novel solution for sustainable fertilizer management. The inventive concept's integration of GPS technology and soil condition monitoring enables a previously unknown level of precision and control in fertilizer application.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments could include modifications for use in different agricultural settings, such as greenhouses or vertical farming, or integration with other precision agriculture tools, like drones or autonomous tractors. Variations could also involve adapting the system for use with different types of fertilizers or crop-specific requirements.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The precision fertilizer dispenser has significant commercial potential in the agricultural industry, particularly among farmers and agricultural companies seeking to reduce their environmental footprint and optimize crop yields. The target market includes sustainable agriculture initiatives, precision farming companies, and government agencies promoting environmentally friendly farming practices.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61J7/0053 |
| A | A61 | A61J1/22 |
| G | G16 | G16H20/13 |
| A | A61 | A61J2200/30 |
| A | A61 | A61J2200/70 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device technology and precision dispensing systems, with expertise in controlled liquid delivery mechanisms, dosage management, and system integration across medical and agricultural domains
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with advanced engineering or biomedical degrees, understanding fluid dynamics, precision dispensing technologies, and cross-domain system adaptation techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A skilled practitioner would recognize the fundamental design principles of the patient-controlled liquid medicine dispenser are readily adaptable to precision agricultural applications. The core technological elements - controlled volumetric dispensing, sealed waste management, and suction-based delivery - translate directly to fertilizer distribution systems. The PTD's integration of GPS and soil monitoring represents a predictable technological extension of the source patent's core mechanical and control principles.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,504 |
|---|---|
| Title | Patient-controlled liquid oral medicine dispenser and deactivation system |
| Assignee(s) | Yale University |