Adaptive High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Systems for Niche Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept discloses specialized high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) systems tailored for specific, narrow markets or unique operational environments, such as high-altitude, extreme weather, high-security, disaster relief, and remote or isolated locations.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent for high-intensity focused ultrasound systems has limitations in adapting to specific environmental conditions. The present inventive concept addresses these limitations by developing HIFU systems that can operate effectively in niche environments, providing a solution for treating tissue in these specialized scenarios.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept comprises HIFU systems adapted for various niche environments. For high-altitude environments, the system is designed to operate at low atmospheric pressure conditions. In extreme weather conditions, the system is protected by a weather-resistant enclosure. For high-security environments, the system integrates with a biometric authentication system. In disaster relief scenarios, the system is portable and powered by a rechargeable battery. For remote or isolated locations, the system integrates with a satellite communication system for remote monitoring and control. These specialized systems enable effective treatment of tissue in these unique environments.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The novelty of the present inventive concept lies in the adaptation of HIFU systems for specific niche environments, providing a solution that is non-obvious compared to the original patent. The inventive step is in the development of specialized components and configurations that enable effective operation in these environments.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include using different types of ultrasound sources, modifying the controller to accommodate varying environmental conditions, or integrating additional sensors to monitor environmental factors. Variations could also include adapting the system for use in other niche environments, such as underwater or space exploration.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The present inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including healthcare, disaster relief, and security. The market for these specialized HIFU systems is expected to grow as the need for effective tissue treatment in niche environments increases.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical ultrasound technology, specifically high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) systems for tissue treatment, requiring expertise in biomedical engineering, medical device design, and ultrasound physics
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced degree, knowledge of ultrasound physics, experience in medical device adaptation for different environmental conditions, and understanding of system integration techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that adapting HIFU systems for specific environmental conditions is a straightforward engineering design challenge involving standard techniques of system modification, protective enclosures, power management, and communication integration. The core ultrasound technology remains fundamentally unchanged, with modifications representing predictable variations to extend the system's operational envelope. These adaptations represent incremental improvements that would be obvious to a skilled practitioner seeking to expand the utility of existing HIFU technology.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,813 |
|---|---|
| Title | High intensity focused ultrasound systems for treating tissue |
| Assignee(s) | University of Washington |