Intelligent, Adaptive Hydrogel Barrier Membranes for Biomedical Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept envisions a next-generation hydrogel barrier membrane system that leverages artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced biomaterials to create tailored, adaptive, and dynamic barriers for various biomedical applications.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a non-toxic, anti-adhesion hydrogel barrier comprising biocompatible polysaccharides. However, these membranes have limitations in terms of adaptability, scalability, and customization for specific surgical procedures. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing advanced technologies and materials to create intelligent, adaptive hydrogel barrier membranes.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a system for generating tailored, adaptive anti-adhesive barrier membranes using artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to optimize polysaccharide composition and structure for specific biomedical applications. This system can create dynamic, self-healing hydrogel barrier membranes that respond to changes in the surgical microenvironment. Additionally, the inventive concept includes biodegradable, shape-memory hydrogel barrier membranes comprising novel combinations of alginate, hyaluronic acid, and graphene oxide, which can be programmed to change shape and properties in response to temperature or light stimuli. Furthermore, the concept encompasses modular, 3D-printed anti-adhesive barrier systems comprising interchangeable, pre-fabricated hydrogel modules with customizable porosity, composition, and shape, adapted for use in complex surgical procedures. Finally, the inventive concept includes biohybrid anti-adhesive barrier membranes comprising living, self-sustaining layers of cells and porous, biodegradable hydrogel matrices, wherein the cells can be genetically engineered to produce anti-adhesive molecules and the hydrogel matrix can be tailored to optimize cell growth and differentiation.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept introduces a paradigm shift in hydrogel barrier membrane technology by integrating artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced biomaterials to create intelligent, adaptive, and dynamic barriers. The inventive concept's novelty lies in its ability to optimize polysaccharide composition and structure for specific biomedical applications, respond to changes in the surgical microenvironment, and be programmed to change shape and properties in response to temperature or light stimuli.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of different artificial intelligence algorithms, various types of sensors and microcontrollers, and alternative biomaterials such as nanocellulose or chitosan. Additionally, the inventive concept could be adapted for use in other biomedical applications such as wound healing, tissue engineering, or implantable devices.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the biomedical industry, particularly in the areas of surgical procedures, wound healing, and tissue engineering. The market for advanced hydrogel barrier membranes is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, driven by the increasing demand for minimally invasive surgical procedures and the need for improved wound healing outcomes.
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 materials engineering, specifically biopolymer hydrogel barrier membranes for surgical and medical applications, with expertise in polysaccharide chemistry, biomaterial design, and tissue engineering
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or materials scientist with advanced degree, working knowledge of hydrogel fabrication, polysaccharide interactions, and biomedical device design, familiar with techniques in polymer chemistry, tissue engineering, and medical device development
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's advanced hydrogel barrier membrane variations are logical extensions of the source patent's foundational work on alginate and hyaluronic acid hydrogel compositions. The disclosed AI-driven optimization, shape-memory properties, and modular design represent predictable engineering improvements that build directly on the existing polysaccharide barrier membrane technology. These variations demonstrate standard problem-solving approaches in biomedical materials engineering, applying known techniques to enhance functionality and adaptability of existing hydrogel barrier membrane concepts.
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 |