Specialized Hydrogel Barrier Membranes for Niche Biomedical Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept discloses novel, specialized hydrogel barrier membranes using alginate and hyaluronic acid, tailored for specific, high-demand biomedical applications, such as high-altitude surgery, disaster relief, extreme weather conditions, high-security environments, and niche medical uses.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a general anti-adhesive barrier membrane using alginate and hyaluronic acid for biomedical applications. However, the original invention did not address the unique challenges and requirements of specific, narrow markets or operational environments. This inventive concept solves the problem by adapting the hydrogel barrier membrane to meet the distinct needs of these specialized applications.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a family of hydrogel barrier membranes, each optimized for a particular niche biomedical application. For example, the membrane for high-altitude surgery is optimized for low-oxygen conditions and high winds, while the membrane for disaster relief medical applications features a unique porosity structure that selectively inhibits fibroblast infiltration. The membranes are constructed using an interpenetrating, crosslinked network of alginate and hyaluronic acid, with specific ratios and proprietary additives tailored to the target application.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel, non-obvious adaptations of the original hydrogel barrier membrane, including optimized formulations and structures for specific, high-demand biomedical applications. These adaptations provide enhanced performance, durability, and safety in these unique operational environments.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept may include varying the ratio of alginate to hyaluronic acid, incorporating additional biocompatible polymers or additives, or modifying the membrane's porosity structure to suit different applications. Variations may also include using different crosslinking agents or methods to enhance the membrane's mechanical properties.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the biomedical industry, particularly in niche markets such as high-altitude surgery, disaster relief, and high-security medical applications. The customized hydrogel barrier membranes can provide enhanced safety, efficacy, and convenience in these specialized fields, addressing unmet needs and generating new revenue streams.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61L31/041 |
| A | A61 | A61K31/192 |
| A | A61 | A61K31/195 |
| A | A61 | A61L31/145 |
| A | A61 | A61L31/148 |
| A | A61 | A61L31/16 |
| A | A61 | A61L2300/414 |
| A | A61 | A61L2300/43 |
| A | A61 | A61L2300/62 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Biomedical polymer engineering, specifically biopolymer hydrogel design for surgical and medical barrier applications, focusing on tissue-interfacing materials with anti-adhesion properties
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or materials scientist with expertise in polymer chemistry, hydrogel formulation, medical device design, and knowledge of biocompatible materials with advanced understanding of polysaccharide interactions and medical application optimization
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill would recognize that the source patent's fundamental hydrogel barrier composition using alginate and hyaluronic acid provides a flexible technological platform that can be systematically adapted for specialized environments. The PTD's variations represent predictable engineering modifications that extend the core technological concept through routine optimization techniques familiar to polymer design specialists. These adaptations demonstrate standard design approaches for tailoring biomaterials to specific operational contexts using known compositional and structural adjustment strategies.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,701 |
|---|---|
| Title | Anti-adhesive barrier membrane using alginate and hyaluronic acid for biomedical applications |
| Assignee(s) | Board of Regents, The University of Texas System |