Electron Beam-Based Sensing and Inspection Technology
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept leverages the core technology of the original patent in radiotherapy systems to develop a novel electron beam-based sensing and inspection technology for various industries, enabling precise detection and monitoring of defects, diseases, and corrosion in diverse applications.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent in radiotherapy systems achieves increased beam output and dynamic field shaping. However, its application is limited to the medical field. The present inventive concept addresses the need for a versatile, high-resolution sensing and inspection technology that can be applied to various industries, including agriculture, aerospace, energy, and infrastructure.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept utilizes an electron emission device to produce and emit an electron beam, which is then steered using a plurality of steering coils to inspect or monitor various surfaces or areas. The system can be integrated into drones, robots, or other platforms to enable remote or autonomous inspection. The electron beam can detect crop stress and disease, pipeline corrosion, defects in aircraft structures, solar panels, and bridge infrastructure, among other applications.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of the original patent's technology, shifting from radiotherapy to sensing and inspection in diverse industries. The inventive step lies in adapting the electron beam technology to accommodate the unique requirements of each industry, such as detecting crop stress or pipeline corrosion.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept may include using different types of electron emission devices, modifying the steering coil configurations, or integrating additional sensors or imaging modalities to enhance the detection capabilities. Variations may also include adapting the technology for underwater or space-based applications.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The electron beam-based sensing and inspection technology has vast commercial potential in various industries, including agriculture, aerospace, energy, infrastructure, and more. The technology can be marketed as a precise, high-resolution, and non-invasive inspection solution, offering significant cost savings and improved efficiency compared to traditional methods.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Electron beam technology, radiation systems, and precision sensing technologies, involving expertise in electron optics, magnetic field manipulation, and multi-domain sensing applications
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
An engineer with advanced degrees in physics or electrical engineering, experienced in electron beam control, magnetic field steering, and interdisciplinary sensing technologies, familiar with electron beam applications across medical, industrial, and diagnostic domains
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the fundamental electron beam steering and emission technology from the radiotherapy patent can be readily adapted to sensing and inspection applications by substituting the target detection context while maintaining core technological principles of electron beam generation and magnetic field-based steering. The core technical mechanisms remain consistent across different application domains, with only contextual modifications required.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,805 |
|---|---|
| Title | Increased beam output and dynamic field shaping for radiotherapy system |
| Assignee(s) | VARIAN MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC. |