Aerosol-based Disinfection and Remediation Systems
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept leverages the aerosol generating system of the original patent to develop novel applications in disinfection, remediation, and purification across various industries, including medical waste treatment, surface decontamination, air purification, contaminated soil remediation, and food processing equipment sanitization.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed an aerosol generating system for nicotine delivery. However, this technology has untapped potential in other fields where aerosol-based solutions can provide effective and efficient results. The present inventive concept addresses the limitations of traditional disinfection, remediation, and purification methods by introducing a flexible, adaptable, and targeted approach using aerosol technology.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises an aerosol generating system, adapted for various applications, which includes a cartridge containing a specific agent (disinfectant, purification agent, remediation agent, or sanitizer) tailored to the intended use. The system generates an aerosol containing the agent, which is then applied to the target area, surface, or medium to achieve the desired effect. For instance, in medical waste treatment, the aerosol containing a disinfectant is applied to sterilize the waste. In surface decontamination, the aerosol is used to sanitize surfaces. Similarly, in air purification, the aerosol containing a purification agent is released into the air to remove pollutants.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel and non-obvious application of the aerosol generating system, shifting from nicotine delivery to disinfection, remediation, and purification. This inventive step lies in the adaptation of the original technology to address distinct problems in various industries, leveraging the advantages of aerosol-based solutions.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include variations in cartridge design, aerosol generation mechanisms, or agent composition to accommodate different use cases. For example, the system could be integrated into existing infrastructure, such as HVAC systems, or designed as portable, handheld devices.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including healthcare, environmental remediation, food processing, and air quality management. The market for aerosol-based disinfection, remediation, and purification solutions is substantial, with growing demand for effective and efficient technologies.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61M11/042 |
| A | A24 | A24F40/30 |
| A | A24 | A24F40/42 |
| A | A24 | A24F40/465 |
| A | A24 | A24F40/48 |
| H | H05 | H05B6/105 |
| A | A24 | A24F40/10 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Aerosol generation systems, particularly for controlled substance delivery and environmental treatment technologies, involving expertise in fluid dynamics, materials science, and chemical engineering with specialization in controlled substance vaporization and aerosol formation
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with a bachelor's or master's degree in chemical engineering, materials science, or related field, with 3-5 years experience in designing fluid delivery systems, understanding ceramic substrate technologies, and knowledge of aerosol generation mechanisms
Obviousness Rationale
The PTD demonstrates a straightforward technological adaptation of the source patent's aerosol generation system by substituting the nicotine delivery mechanism with alternative agents for different environmental applications. A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental similarity in the core technological approach: using a porous ceramic substrate, controlled air flow channels, and precise aerosol generation principles across different substance delivery contexts. The technical framework established in the source patent provides a clear template for extending the technology to alternative domains like disinfection and remediation.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,717 |
|---|---|
| Title | Aerosol generating system with enhanced aerosol delivery |
| Assignee(s) | Philip Morris Products S.A. |