Airflow Delivery Systems for Non-Medical Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept expands the core technology of the original patent to deliver air in various non-medical contexts, including greenhouses, soil aeration, aquatic animal care, fuel cells, and material drying.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent focused on devices and methods for delivering air to patients, primarily in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) scenarios. However, the core technology has broader applicability. This inventive concept addresses the need for efficient and controlled airflow delivery in non-medical industries, where existing solutions may be inadequate or non-existent.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new claims describe systems and methods for delivering air in various non-medical contexts. For example, a system for providing oxygen to plants in a greenhouse uses a device with a first portion featuring a first airflow inlet and a sensor, and a second portion with a second airflow inlet, an impeller, and an outlet for communicating airflow to the plants. Similarly, a device for providing oxygen to aquatic animals operates underwater, while a system for providing oxygen to a fuel cell utilizes the same core technology. The inventive concept also encompasses methods for aerating soil and drying materials using the airflow delivery technology.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel applications of the original patent's core technology, expanding its scope beyond medical devices. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the airflow delivery system to address specific challenges in non-medical industries, demonstrating a non-obvious and innovative approach to solving real-world problems.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include modifying the sensor to detect different environmental factors, such as temperature or humidity, or integrating the airflow delivery system with existing infrastructure in the target industries. Variations could also involve adjusting the impeller design or materials to optimize performance in specific applications.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including agriculture, aquaculture, energy, and manufacturing. The ability to provide efficient and controlled airflow delivery can improve crop yields, enhance aquatic animal health, increase fuel cell efficiency, and optimize material drying processes. The target market includes companies and organizations operating in these industries, as well as researchers and developers seeking innovative solutions to specific challenges.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61M16/0048 |
| A | A61 | A61M16/0072 |
| A | A61 | A61M16/0003 |
| A | A61 | A61M16/0078 |
| A | A61 | A61M2016/0027 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device engineering and fluid delivery systems, with expertise in pneumatic control systems, sensor integration, and airflow management across medical and industrial applications
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled engineer with advanced degree in mechanical or biomedical engineering, experienced in designing fluid delivery systems, familiar with sensor technologies, impeller mechanics, and cross-domain technology adaptation
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the core airflow delivery mechanism from the medical device patent can be readily adapted to alternative domains by substituting the target recipient and slightly modifying sensor parameters. The fundamental technical architecture remains consistent across applications, with the impeller, sensor, and airflow path serving as transferable core technologies that can be repurposed through routine engineering modifications.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,723 |
|---|---|
| Title | Devices and methods for delivering air to a patient |