Inert Gas Discharge Nozzle for Agricultural Crop Drying and Food Preservation

Publication ID: 24-11857817_0002_PTD
Published: October 28, 2025
Category:New Applications & Use Cases

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “Inert Gas Discharge Nozzle for Agricultural Crop Drying and Food Preservation,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11857817_0002_PTD, Published October 28, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11857817_0002_PTD
This technical disclosure describes improvements that would be readily apparent to a Person Having Ordinary Skill In The Art (PHOSITA) when considered in combination with the foundational architecture disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,857,817.

Summary of the Inventive Concept

The inventive concept applies the low-pressure drop acoustic suppressor nozzle technology to agricultural crop drying, food preservation, and industrial dehumidification, providing a controlled atmosphere for drying and preserving crops and food products, while reducing bacterial growth and moisture content.

Background and Problem Solved

Traditional methods for drying and preserving crops and food products often result in moisture damage, bacterial growth, and reduced shelf life. The original patent's low-pressure drop acoustic suppressor nozzle technology, initially designed for fire suppression systems, offers a solution to these problems by providing a controlled atmosphere for drying and preservation.

Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept

The inventive concept utilizes the inert gas discharge nozzle with a low-pressure drop acoustic suppressor to create a controlled atmosphere for drying crops and preserving food products. The nozzle's design enables a precise control over the gas flow, pressure, and temperature, ensuring optimal conditions for drying and preservation. In agricultural crop drying, the nozzle can be integrated into drying systems to reduce moisture content and prevent spoilage. In food preservation, the nozzle can be used to create a controlled atmosphere for storing food products, reducing bacterial growth and extending shelf life.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The new claims introduce a novel application of the low-pressure drop acoustic suppressor nozzle technology to agricultural crop drying, food preservation, and industrial dehumidification, which was not considered in the original patent. The inventive step lies in adapting the nozzle's design to provide a controlled atmosphere for drying and preservation, addressing the specific problems in these industries.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include integrating the nozzle with existing drying and preservation systems, using different inert gases or gas mixtures, or modifying the nozzle's design to accommodate specific crop or food product requirements. Variations could also include using the nozzle in other industries, such as pharmaceuticals or textiles, where controlled atmospheres are crucial.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the agricultural, food processing, and industrial dehumidification industries. The market for controlled atmosphere drying and preservation systems is growing, driven by increasing demands for food safety and sustainability. The inventive concept offers a unique solution to these industries, providing a competitive advantage and opportunities for market expansion.

Original Patent Information

Patent NumberUS 11,857,817
TitleLow pressure drop acoustic suppressor nozzle for inert gas discharge system
Assignee(s)Tyco Fire Products LP