Expanding Near Infrared Light Therapy to Novel Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept leverages the core technology of near infrared light therapy, originally designed for treating traumatic brain injury, to pioneer new applications in plant growth, animal stress reduction, skin condition treatment, cognitive function improvement, and pain management.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent focused on treating traumatic brain injury, but its underlying technology has broader potential. This inventive concept addresses the limitations of the original patent by exploring new industries and use cases where near infrared light therapy can provide significant benefits.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept encompasses a range of novel applications, including: (1) enhancing plant growth using near infrared light, (2) reducing stress in animals through wearable devices, (3) treating skin conditions with handheld units, (4) improving cognitive function in individuals with ADHD using headbands, and (5) alleviating pain in patients with fibromyalgia. Each application leverages the core technology of near infrared light therapy, with tailored modifications to address specific challenges and needs.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The inventive concept introduces new and non-obvious applications of near infrared light therapy, departing from the original patent's focus on traumatic brain injury. The novel combination of near infrared light therapy with specific industries and use cases constitutes the inventive step.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include: (1) integrating near infrared light therapy with existing agricultural systems, (2) developing implantable devices for animal stress reduction, (3) creating near infrared light-emitting fabrics for skin condition treatment, (4) incorporating near infrared light therapy into virtual reality platforms for ADHD treatment, and (5) designing portable near infrared light devices for fibromyalgia pain management.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential across various industries, including agriculture, veterinary care, dermatology, neuroscience, and pain management. The target market includes companies and organizations seeking innovative solutions for these specific challenges, as well as individuals seeking alternative therapies for various health conditions.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Biomedical engineering, specifically neural treatment technologies and light-based therapeutic devices with expertise in near-infrared light application for physiological interventions
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced knowledge of photobiomodulation, light therapy principles, wearable medical technologies, and interdisciplinary applications of near-infrared light treatment
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the core near-infrared light therapy technology disclosed in the source patent represents a versatile platform with inherent adaptability across multiple physiological domains. The fundamental mechanism of targeted light application for biological modulation provides a clear technological foundation for exploring alternative therapeutic and biological enhancement applications. Given the well-established principles of photobiomodulation, a skilled practitioner would find it predictable to extend the light therapy approach to diverse contexts like plant growth, animal stress reduction, and cognitive function improvement.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,801 |
|---|---|
| Title | Device for treatment of traumatic brain injury and related systems and methods |
| Assignee(s) | REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA, AURORA CONCUSSION THERAPY SYSTEMS |