Neurostimulation-based Sensors for Diverse Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept extends the core technology of neurostimulation systems to novel applications in agricultural monitoring, athletic performance tracking, water quality detection, and building energy efficiency optimization, leveraging the active emulation of passive discharge in the presence of electromagnetic interference.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent addressed the challenge of regulating current in neurostimulation systems amidst electromagnetic interference. However, its scope was limited to medical applications. This inventive concept tackles the problem of adapting the core technology to diverse industries, where the ability to detect and respond to electromagnetic signals can be leveraged to drive innovation and improvement.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a neurostimulation system adapted for use in various non-medical settings. In agricultural monitoring, the system detects changes in soil moisture levels, enabling farmers to optimize irrigation and crop yields. In athletic performance tracking, the system monitors muscle fatigue, providing athletes with valuable insights to improve their training regimens. In water quality detection, the system identifies changes in water chemistry, facilitating early detection of contamination. In building energy efficiency optimization, the system detects energy losses, enabling building managers to implement targeted energy-saving measures.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a paradigm shift in the application of neurostimulation technology, expanding its scope to novel industries and use cases. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the core technology to address specific challenges in these diverse fields, demonstrating a non-obvious and innovative approach to problem-solving.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include modifications to the electrode design, EMI antenna configurations, and signal processing algorithms to further tailor the system to specific applications. Variations could also involve integrating the neurostimulation system with other sensing modalities or machine learning algorithms to enhance its capabilities.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential across multiple industries, including agriculture, sports, water quality management, and building energy efficiency. The market for such applications is substantial, with opportunities for partnerships, licensing, and product development.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Biomedical engineering and neurostimulation systems, with expertise in electromagnetic interference (EMI) mitigation, sensor design, and signal processing for medical and adaptive sensing technologies
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled practitioner with advanced electrical engineering or biomedical engineering credentials, capable of understanding complex neurostimulation circuits, EMI detection techniques, and cross-domain technology adaptation
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the core neurostimulation technology disclosed in US 11857789 provides a fundamental signal detection and interference management framework that can be readily adapted to alternative sensing domains. The source patent's sophisticated EMI antenna and discharge regulation mechanisms represent a generalizable technological approach that could be systematically applied to non-medical monitoring contexts. The technical principles of electromagnetic signal detection, current regulation, and adaptive sensing are fundamentally transferable across different application spaces.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,789 |
|---|---|
| Title | Neurostimulation method and system for active emulation of passive discharge in presence of MRI/EMI interference |
| Assignee(s) | Advanced Neuromodulation Systems, Inc. |