Intelligent Check Valve System for Optimized Fluid Flow and Contamination Risk Reduction
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present disclosure relates to a novel system integrating a check valve with advanced technologies such as sensors, machine learning, blockchain, and IoT to optimize fluid flow and minimize particulate accumulation in medical devices, thereby reducing contamination risks and improving patient safety.
Background and Problem Solved
The original check valve patent (FIELD OF THE INVENTION) addressed the need for a reliable check valve in IV sets. However, it did not provide a comprehensive solution for monitoring and controlling fluid flow, particulate accumulation, and contamination risks. The present inventive concept solves this problem by synergistically combining the check valve with distinct technologies to create a more powerful system.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a check valve with a wiping extension, which is integrated with various advanced technologies such as sensors, machine learning algorithms, blockchain-based tracking systems, and IoT-enabled sensors. These components work together to detect particulate accumulation, analyze fluid flow data, predict optimal wiping extension actuation times, and provide real-time insights on fluid flow optimization and contamination risk reduction. The system can be implemented in various medical devices, including IV sets, to minimize contamination risks and improve patient safety.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a synergistic combination of the check valve with advanced technologies, which is not obvious from the original patent. The integration of these distinct technologies enables real-time monitoring and control of fluid flow, particulate accumulation, and contamination risks, thereby providing a novel and non-obvious solution.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of different types of sensors, machine learning algorithms, or blockchain-based systems. Additionally, the system could be adapted for use in other medical devices or industries, such as dialysis machines or industrial fluid handling systems.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the IV set market. The system's ability to minimize contamination risks and improve patient safety could lead to widespread adoption and generate substantial revenue. Additionally, the technology could be licensed to other industries, further expanding its market potential.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61M5/16881 |
| A | A61 | A61M39/24 |
| B | B08 | B08B1/005 |
| B | B08 | B08B1/02 |
| F | F16 | F16K15/02 |
| F | F16 | F16K15/023 |
| A | A61 | A61M2039/246 |
| A | A61 | A61M2209/10 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device engineering, specifically fluid control systems for medical fluid delivery, with expertise in check valve design, sensor integration, and medical device monitoring technologies
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device design professional with advanced degrees in mechanical or biomedical engineering, familiar with fluid control mechanisms, sensor technologies, and medical device regulatory requirements
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that integrating sensor and monitoring technologies with existing check valve designs represents a predictable extension of known medical device improvement strategies. The source patent's fundamental check valve structure provides a clear technical foundation for adding intelligent monitoring capabilities. The proposed variations leverage standard IoT, machine learning, and sensor technologies to enhance the existing valve's functionality in a manner consistent with established medical device innovation practices.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,761 |
|---|---|
| Title | Check valve |
| Assignee(s) | CareFusion 303, Inc. |