Microstructure-Mediated Absorption Profile Sensors for Environmental, Agricultural, Athletic, and Food Monitoring Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept expands the core technology of absorbable polymer devices with microstructure-mediated absorption profiles to entirely new industries, including environmental monitoring, agricultural crop monitoring, athletic performance tracking, water contaminant detection, and food spoilage monitoring.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent's absorbable polymer medical implants with microstructure-mediated absorption profiles were limited to surgical applications. However, the unique properties of these devices can be leveraged to address pressing problems in various industries. For instance, environmental monitoring systems often rely on non-absorbable sensors that can harm ecosystems, while agricultural crop monitoring methods can be invasive and inaccurate. Similarly, athletic performance tracking devices may not provide accurate hydration and electrolyte level data, and water contaminant detection systems can be costly and inefficient. This inventive concept solves these problems by applying the core technology to these new fields, enabling more effective, sustainable, and accurate monitoring solutions.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a range of absorbable polymer sensors with microstructure-mediated absorption profiles, each tailored to specific applications. In environmental monitoring, these sensors can detect changes in environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, or pollution levels. In agricultural crop monitoring, the sensors can be embedded in soil to detect moisture levels and nutrient availability, providing farmers with real-time data to optimize crop growth. The wearable device for athletic performance tracking features an absorbable polymer sensor that detects changes in skin hydration and electrolyte levels, enabling athletes to optimize their performance and recovery. The system for detecting water contaminants uses a plurality of absorbable polymer sensors to detect changes in water chemistry, providing an early warning system for waterborne diseases. Finally, the method for monitoring food spoilage embeds absorbable polymer sensors in food packaging to detect changes in gas composition and humidity, ensuring food safety and reducing waste.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of the microstructure-mediated absorption profile technology, expanding its use beyond surgical implants to a range of industries. The inventive step lies in recognizing the potential of this technology to address specific problems in these fields and adapting the absorbable polymer sensors to meet these needs.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include using different types of absorbable polymers, varying the microstructure design, or integrating the sensors with other technologies, such as IoT or AI systems. Variations could also include adapting the sensors for use in other industries, such as construction or aerospace.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential across various industries, including environmental monitoring, agriculture, sports technology, water treatment, and food safety. The market for these applications is substantial, with growing demand for sustainable, accurate, and efficient monitoring solutions. The inventive concept's ability to provide real-time data and enable data-driven decision-making could disrupt existing markets and create new opportunities for businesses and individuals alike.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61L27/58 |
| A | A61 | A61L27/18 |
| A | A61 | A61L27/22 |
| A | A61 | A61L27/34 |
| A | A61 | A61L31/06 |
| A | A61 | A61L31/10 |
| A | A61 | A61L31/148 |
| A | A61 | A61L27/30 |
| A | A61 | A61L31/043 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Biomedical engineering and polymer science, specifically focusing on absorbable medical devices and sensor technologies with microstructured surfaces. Expertise would include polymer chemistry, surface engineering, medical device design, and interdisciplinary sensor applications
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A researcher or engineer with advanced degrees in biomedical engineering, materials science, or polymer engineering, possessing knowledge of surface modification techniques, absorption profiles, and cross-industry sensor technology adaptation
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the microstructure-mediated absorption profile technology disclosed in the source patent represents a fundamental platform technology with inherent adaptability across multiple domains. The core principles of surface texturing and absorption control are directly transferable to sensing and monitoring applications. The PTD demonstrates predictable extensions of the original surgical implant technology by leveraging the established microstructure design principles for environmental and diagnostic sensing purposes.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,700 |
|---|---|
| Title | Device with microstructure mediated absorption profile |
| Assignee(s) | BVW Holding AG |