Ocean Energy Harvesting and Environmental Monitoring System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A novel system utilizing foot-worn aquatic fins to harness ocean energy, monitor ocean conditions, and prevent coastal erosion, opening up new possibilities for sustainable energy generation and environmental stewardship.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a foot-worn aquatic fin for aquatic activities, but it did not consider the potential of this technology in other industries. This new inventive concept addresses the need for innovative solutions in ocean energy harvesting, environmental monitoring, and coastal protection.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The system comprises a plurality of foot-worn aquatic fins adapted to rotate in response to ocean currents, generating electricity. The fins can be designed to capture heat energy from ocean currents and convert it into usable electrical energy. Additionally, the fins can be equipped with sensors for monitoring ocean currents, temperature, and salinity, transmitting data to a remote server for analysis. The system can also be used for coastal erosion prevention by anchoring the fins to the seafloor, dissipating wave energy and reducing coastal erosion. Furthermore, the fins can be equipped with collection nets to navigate through ocean currents and collect plastic waste.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of the foot-worn aquatic fin technology in the field of ocean energy harvesting, environmental monitoring, and coastal protection, which is not obvious from the original patent. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the fin design to address these new use cases, demonstrating a non-obvious and innovative solution.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the system could include using different fin materials, modifying the fin shape for improved energy harvesting, or integrating the system with other ocean-based technologies. Variations of the system could include using the fins for tidal energy harvesting, ocean current monitoring, or marine life tracking.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The Ocean Energy Harvesting and Environmental Monitoring System has significant commercial potential in the renewable energy, environmental monitoring, and coastal protection industries. The system can be marketed to companies and governments seeking sustainable energy solutions, ocean conservation organizations, and coastal protection agencies.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A63 | A63B31/14 |
| A | A63 | A63B2031/115 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Marine and aquatic sports equipment design, specifically hydrodynamic fin systems with adaptable mechanical configurations for underwater propulsion and interaction
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
An engineer or designer with expertise in marine equipment, fluid dynamics, mechanical engineering, with knowledge of sports equipment design and underwater biomechanics, capable of understanding complex mechanical interactions between human-worn devices and fluid environments
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the source patent's articulated fin design with pivoting hydrofoil blades provides a fundamental technological platform that can be readily adapted to alternative energy harvesting and environmental monitoring applications. The modular design of the original fin system inherently suggests potential for expanded functional implementations beyond traditional swimming uses. The technical principles of blade rotation, energy transfer, and mechanical responsiveness are directly transferable to the proposed ocean energy and monitoring systems.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,844 |
|---|---|
| Title | Foot worn aquatic fin |
| Assignee(s) | SWUNNING SÀRL |