Inert Gas Discharge Nozzle for Agricultural Crop Drying and Food Preservation
Legal Citation
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.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Fire suppression and gas flow control systems, with expertise in fluid dynamics, nozzle design, and controlled atmosphere technologies
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
An engineer with advanced degree in mechanical or chemical engineering, experienced in gas flow systems, nozzle design, and industrial process control, with knowledge of fluid dynamics and heat transfer principles
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the fundamental gas flow control principles of the low-pressure drop acoustic suppressor nozzle are readily adaptable to alternative industrial applications beyond fire suppression. The core technological innovation of precise gas flow and pressure management is universally applicable across different controlled atmosphere scenarios. The PTD demonstrates a straightforward extension of the source patent's core technological principles to agricultural and food preservation contexts.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,817 |
|---|---|
| Title | Low pressure drop acoustic suppressor nozzle for inert gas discharge system |
| Assignee(s) | Tyco Fire Products LP |