Sterilization Technology for Diverse Industries
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept expands the core technology of the original patent to provide sterilization solutions for various industries beyond aseptic filling, including medical equipment, agricultural equipment, spacecraft, 3D printed objects, and athletic equipment.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent focused on sterilizing the interior of aseptic filler chambers, but this technology has broader applications. The new inventive concept addresses the need for effective sterilization methods in diverse industries, where contamination can have severe consequences.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a sterilizing chamber and a mechanism for generating a sterilizing atmosphere using various combinations of hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, heated aseptic air, and UV light. This technology can be adapted to sterilize surfaces of medical equipment, agricultural equipment, spacecraft, 3D printed objects, and athletic equipment. For example, in a hospital setting, the system can sterilize medical equipment using hydrogen peroxide and heated aseptic air. In agricultural settings, the method can sanitize equipment using peracetic acid and aseptic water.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel applications and use cases for the original patent's sterilization technology, expanding its scope beyond aseptic filling. The inventive concept's novelty lies in its adaptability to diverse industries, providing a comprehensive sterilization solution.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include using different sterilizing agents, adjusting the sterilization process for specific industries, or integrating the technology with existing equipment and systems.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including healthcare, agriculture, aerospace, 3D printing, and sports equipment manufacturing. The technology's ability to provide effective sterilization solutions can improve product safety, reduce contamination risks, and increase efficiency.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61L2/208 |
| A | A61 | A61L2/06 |
| A | A61 | A61L2/18 |
| A | A61 | A61L2202/15 |
| A | A61 | A61L2202/23 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Sterilization technologies for industrial and medical applications, encompassing chemical sterilization methods, aseptic processing, and surface decontamination techniques across multiple industries
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with expertise in chemical engineering, microbiology, and sterilization technologies, holding advanced degrees and practical experience in designing sterilization systems for diverse environments
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill in the art would recognize the fundamental similarity of sterilization principles across different industrial contexts, understanding that the core sterilization mechanisms disclosed in the source patent can be readily adapted to alternative environments by applying known chemical and thermal sterilization techniques with predictable results.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,690 |
|---|---|
| Title | Method for sterilizing interior of aseptic filler chamber |
| Assignee(s) | NIPPON TELEGRAPH AND TELEPHONE CORPORATION |