Next-Generation Gastrointestinal Stimulation Systems
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept envisions a paradigm shift in gastrointestinal stimulation technology, leveraging advancements in implantable devices, nanotechnology, micro-robots, and machine learning to provide personalized, adaptive, and high-resolution therapy for gastrointestinal disorders.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed implantable and non-invasive stimulators for gastrointestinal therapeutics, but these systems have limitations in terms of upgradeability, resolution, and adaptability. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing modular, implantable stimulators with wireless software updates, bio-absorbable nanotechnology-based stimulators, micro-robots, and machine learning-based control systems.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept comprises four key components: 1) a modular, implantable stimulator that can be upgraded via wireless software updates, providing personalized, adaptive gastrointestinal therapy; 2) a bio-absorbable, nanotechnology-based stimulator that can be implanted in the gastrointestinal tract, providing targeted, high-resolution electrical stimulation; 3) a swarm of micro-robots that can be ingested and navigate to specific regions of the gastrointestinal tract, providing coordinated, multi-point electrical stimulation; and 4) a non-invasive, wearable stimulator with a machine learning-based control system that adapts to real-time feedback from integrated sensors and patient feedback.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel and non-obvious features, including modular, implantable stimulators with wireless software updates, bio-absorbable nanotechnology-based stimulators, micro-robots, and machine learning-based control systems. These advancements provide a significant departure from the original patent, enabling more effective, personalized, and adaptive gastrointestinal therapy.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in the design and materials of the implantable stimulators, the use of different types of sensors and feedback mechanisms, and the integration of other advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence or virtual reality.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The next-generation gastrointestinal stimulation systems have significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, with potential applications in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, gastroparesis, and inflammatory bowel disease. The target market includes hospitals, clinics, and medical research institutions.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Biomedical engineering, specifically gastrointestinal stimulation technologies, focusing on electrical neurostimulation systems for therapeutic interventions in the digestive system
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with expertise in electrical stimulation, neural interface technologies, and advanced medical device design, holding advanced degrees in bioengineering or electrical engineering with specialized knowledge in neurostimulation techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the published technical disclosure represents predictable variations and extensions of the source patent's core electrical stimulation technology. The fundamental approach of transcutaneous and targeted electrical stimulation remains consistent, with the PTD introducing incremental technological improvements that would be apparent to a skilled practitioner. The variations primarily represent known design approaches in medical device engineering, such as incorporating machine learning, nanotechnology, and modular design principles.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,783 |
|---|---|
| Title | Implantable and non-invasive stimulators for gastrointestinal therapeutics |
| Assignee(s) | The Regents of the University of California |