Multifunctional Channel-Based Systems for Efficient Material Collection and Removal
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A novel approach to material collection and removal across various industries, leveraging the core technology of grooved surfaces to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and safety.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a golf club head with grooves for improved ball striking. However, the limitations of this design were restricted to the golfing industry. The new inventive concept addresses the need for efficient material collection and removal in diverse fields, such as snow removal, agricultural harvesting, medical tissue collection, surface cleaning, and oil spill cleanup.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The multifunctional channel-based system consists of a surface or blade with a plurality of channels formed within a first material. Each channel is separated from other channels by the first material and is adapted to collect and remove specific materials, such as snow, crop material, tissue samples, dirt, debris, or oil. The channels may incorporate inserts made of a second material, which can be softer than the first material, to enhance material collection and removal. The system's versatility lies in its ability to be applied across various industries, offering improved efficiency, effectiveness, and safety.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of the grooved surface technology, expanding its use beyond the golfing industry. The inventive step lies in the recognition of the technology's potential to address material collection and removal challenges in diverse fields, and the adaptation of the design to accommodate these new applications.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include adjusting the channel geometry, material selection, and surface texture to optimize performance for specific industries. Variations could also involve integrating sensors, heating elements, or other features to enhance the system's functionality and adaptability.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The multifunctional channel-based system has significant commercial potential in various industries, including winter maintenance, agriculture, healthcare, cleaning services, and environmental remediation. The system's efficiency, effectiveness, and safety benefits position it for widespread adoption, with potential market sizes ranging from millions to billions of dollars.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A63 | A63B53/047 |
| B | B23 | B23P11/00 |
| B | B23 | B23P11/025 |
| B | B23 | B23P17/04 |
| A | A63 | A63B53/0416 |
| A | A63 | A63B53/0445 |
| A | A63 | A63B2209/00 |
| Y | Y10 | Y10T29/4997 |
| Y | Y10 | Y10T29/49826 |
| Y | Y10 | Y10T29/49865 |
| Y | Y10 | Y10T29/49885 |
| Y | Y10 | Y10T29/49989 |
| Y | Y10 | Y10T29/49995 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Materials engineering, mechanical design, and surface technology with expertise in precision manufacturing techniques, surface modification, and multi-functional engineering interfaces across industries including sports equipment, agricultural machinery, medical devices, and industrial cleaning systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled practitioner with advanced engineering degree, understanding of material science, surface engineering principles, and cross-industry design adaptation techniques, capable of translating specialized design concepts across different technical domains
Obviousness Rationale
The published technical disclosure represents a predictable extension of the source patent's core technological concept of channeled surfaces with material-specific performance characteristics. A person skilled in the art would recognize the fundamental design principle of directional material collection through engineered surface geometries as universally applicable across multiple technical domains. The systematic translation of the golf club groove technology into alternative applications demonstrates standard engineering problem-solving and design adaptation strategies.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,850 |
|---|---|
| Title | Golf club head with grooves and method of manufacture |
| Assignee(s) | Karsten Manufacturing Corporation |