Microcapsule-Based Compositions for Controlled Release in Various Industries
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept leverages the core technology of microcapsules with oil-based cores and polymeric shells coated with cationic polymers, originally designed for rinse-off conditioner compositions, to address unmet needs in agricultural crop protection, biomedical applications, cosmetic skincare products, and pharmaceuticals.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed rinse-off conditioner compositions comprising microcapsules with oil-based cores and polymeric shells coated with cationic polymers. However, the technology's potential applications were limited to the cosmetic industry. The new inventive concept addresses the need for controlled release and targeted delivery in various industries, such as agriculture, biomedicine, and pharmaceuticals, where existing solutions often lack efficacy, safety, or sustainability.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept involves adapting the microcapsule technology to create compositions for controlled release of pesticides, fertilizers, therapeutic agents, and active ingredients for skin protection. The microcapsules' oil-based cores and polymeric shells coated with cationic polymers enable sustained release, improved efficacy, and reduced environmental impact. The new claims encompass systems, methods, and compositions for various industries, including agricultural crop protection, biomedical applications, cosmetic skincare products, and pharmaceuticals.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of the microcapsule technology, extending its use beyond the cosmetic industry to address specific needs in agriculture, biomedicine, and pharmaceuticals. The inventive step lies in recognizing the potential of this technology to solve problems in these industries and adapting it to create innovative solutions.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include using different types of polymers or cationic coatings, varying the size and shape of the microcapsules, or incorporating additional components to enhance the controlled release mechanism. Variations could also involve adapting the technology for use in other industries, such as food processing or textiles.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including agricultural crop protection, biomedical applications, cosmetic skincare products, and pharmaceuticals. The market for controlled release and targeted delivery solutions is substantial, with growing demand for sustainable and effective solutions. The inventive concept's potential to address unmet needs in these industries could lead to significant revenue growth and market share.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61K8/416 |
| A | A61 | A61K8/11 |
| A | A61 | A61K8/31 |
| A | A61 | A61K8/342 |
| A | A61 | A61K8/361 |
| A | A61 | A61K8/737 |
| A | A61 | A61K8/88 |
| A | A61 | A61K8/898 |
| A | A61 | A61K8/922 |
| A | A61 | A61K8/927 |
| A | A61 | A61Q5/02 |
| A | A61 | A61Q5/12 |
| A | A61 | A61Q19/007 |
| A | A61 | A61K2800/33 |
| A | A61 | A61K2800/412 |
| A | A61 | A61K2800/5426 |
| A | A61 | A61K2800/624 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Chemical engineering and pharmaceutical formulation technologies, specifically focused on microencapsulation techniques for controlled release systems across multiple industries including cosmetics, agriculture, and biomedicine
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with advanced degree (MS/PhD) in chemical engineering, polymer science, or pharmaceutical sciences, with expertise in microencapsulation technologies, surface chemistry, and controlled release mechanisms
Obviousness Rationale
The PTD demonstrates a straightforward extension of the source patent's core microcapsule technology by applying the established oil-based core and cationic polymer shell design to alternative industrial applications. A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental microcapsule structure remains consistent across different use cases, with only contextual modifications to the encapsulated material. The core innovation of controlled release through specific microcapsule architecture is directly transferable between cosmetic, agricultural, biomedical, and pharmaceutical domains.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,659 |
|---|---|
| Title | Rinse-off conditioner compositions comprising microcapsules |
| Assignee(s) | FIRMENICH SA |