Worcester Polytechnic Institute

United States of America

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2025 July 1
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IPC Class
A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons 41
H01M 10/54 - Reclaiming serviceable parts of waste accumulators 20
A61B 34/30 - Surgical robots 17
C22B 7/00 - Working-up raw materials other than ores, e.g. scrap, to produce non-ferrous metals or compounds thereof 15
A61B 90/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups , e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges 14
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41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services 15
25 - Clothing; footwear; headgear 4
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16 - Paper, cardboard and goods made from these materials 3
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1.

MULTILAYER STRETCHABLE PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD

      
Application Number US2024062241
Publication Number 2025/147433
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-12-30
Publication Date 2025-07-10
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Rao, Pratap
  • Pandey, Ritwik
  • Pratt, Nicholas R.
  • Nemitz, Markus P.

Abstract

A flexible trace formed from a fluidic, conductive material deposited onto a flexible and stretchable substrate forms a stretchable and deformable circuit for implementations subject to bending and flexing such as soft robotics and textile application such as clothing. An encapsulation layer forms a convex vessel over the flexible trace, and additional circuit layers are accommodated on the encapsulation layer by forming an aperture in the encapsulation layer for defining a via, and depositing a trace on the encapsulation layer engaged with the aperture. Successive encapsulation layers may serve as successive substrate layers for additional traces deposition or printing, followed by a final encapsulation layer for fully enclosing the traces and any placed components. As the layers are deformable and stretchable, and the traces are a fluidic, conductive material, the entire structure is flexible and deformable without compromising the electrical continuity of the deposited traces and connected components.

IPC Classes  ?

2.

ELECTRODE BUBBLE REMOVAL

      
Application Number US2024060742
Publication Number 2025/137083
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-12-18
Publication Date 2025-06-26
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor Mortazavi, Mehdi

Abstract

An electrolyzer for gaseous production such as hydrogen gas includes an oscillating electrode driven at a natural frequency of the gaseous bubbles improves output by readily removing the gaseous bubble product from the electrode surface, thereby exposing greater electrode surface area for subsequent electrolysis reactions. A natural frequency of the gaseous product determines an oscillation frequency with which to drive the electrode accumulating the gaseous product, such as hydrogen bubbles, to agitate and release the bubbles which then rise to the surface of the liquid filled containment. Integrating oscillation logic for agitating the otherwise stationary electrode or cathode in a PEM water electrolyzer improves hydrogen production by readily evacuating the generated hydrogen to free up the electrode area for additional electrolysis reactions.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C25B 1/04 - Hydrogen or oxygen by electrolysis of water
  • C25B 9/65 - Means for supplying currentElectrode connectionsElectric inter-cell connections
  • C25B 9/23 - Cells comprising dimensionally-stable non-movable electrodesAssemblies of constructional parts thereof with diaphragms comprising ion-exchange membranes in or on which electrode material is embedded
  • C25B 13/08 - DiaphragmsSpacing elements characterised by the material based on organic materials
  • B06B 1/00 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency

3.

ROBOT-ASSISTED IMAGING AND SERVOING FOR INTRAOPERATIVE GUIDANCE

      
Application Number 18981464
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-12-14
First Publication Date 2025-06-19
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Ji, Songbai
  • Ma, Xihan
  • Zhang, Haichong
  • Sungarian, Arno

Abstract

An intraoperative guidance approach for an image guided surgical robot performs intraoperative image registration and guidance based on a surgical target. A surgical imaging modality, such as US (ultrasound) or PA (photoacoustic), establishes a frame of reference based on a preoperative base imaging modality such as CT (computed tomography) or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). A position reference of a surgical target, such as a tumor or neural structure, is established by the surgical imaging modality from the base imaging modality, computed based on a dense scan of the surgical region. Successive scans in the surgical image modality provide real-time guidance for a robotically actuated surgical instrument or probe based on the surgical target. An iteration of successive scans allows intramodal servoing concurrent with surgical instrument actuation towards a moving surgical target when a fixed surgical position in the frame of reference cannot be assured.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 34/32 - Surgical robots operating autonomously
  • A61B 34/20 - Surgical navigation systemsDevices for tracking or guiding surgical instruments, e.g. for frameless stereotaxis
  • A61B 90/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups , e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges

4.

ELECTRODE BUBBLE REMOVAL

      
Application Number 18985714
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-12-18
First Publication Date 2025-06-19
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor Mortazavi, Mehdi

Abstract

An electrolyzer for gaseous production such as hydrogen gas includes an oscillating electrode driven at a natural frequency of the gaseous bubbles improves output by readily removing the gaseous bubble product from the electrode surface, thereby exposing greater electrode surface area for subsequent electrolysis reactions. A natural frequency of the gaseous product determines an oscillation frequency with which to drive the electrode accumulating the gaseous product, such as hydrogen bubbles, to agitate and release the bubbles which then rise to the surface of the liquid filled containment. Integrating oscillation logic for agitating the otherwise stationary electrode or cathode in a PEM water electrolyzer improves hydrogen production by readily evacuating the generated hydrogen to free up the electrode area for additional electrolysis reactions.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C25B 9/30 - Cells comprising movable electrodes, e.g. rotary electrodesAssemblies of constructional parts thereof
  • C25B 1/04 - Hydrogen or oxygen by electrolysis of water
  • C25B 15/02 - Process control or regulation

5.

ROBOT-ASSISTED IMAGING AND SERVOING FOR INTRAOPERATIVE GUIDANCE

      
Application Number US2024060252
Publication Number 2025/129149
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-12-14
Publication Date 2025-06-19
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Ji, Songbai
  • Ma, Xihan
  • Zhang, Haichong
  • Sungarian, Arno

Abstract

An intraoperative guidance approach for an image guided surgical robot performs intraoperative image registration and guidance based on a surgical target. A surgical imaging modality, such as US (ultrasound) or PA (photoacoustic), establishes a frame of reference based on a preoperative base imaging modality such as CT (computed tomography) or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). A position reference of a surgical target, such as a tumor or neural structure, is established by the surgical imaging modality from the base imaging modality, computed based on a dense scan of the surgical region. Successive scans in the surgical image modality provide real-time guidance for a robotically actuated surgical instrument or probe based on the surgical target. An iteration of successive scans allows intramodal servoing concurrent with surgical instrument actuation towards a moving surgical target when a fixed surgical position in the frame of reference cannot be assured.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 34/30 - Surgical robots
  • A61B 34/20 - Surgical navigation systemsDevices for tracking or guiding surgical instruments, e.g. for frameless stereotaxis
  • A61B 90/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups , e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges

6.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR UNDERACTUATED CONTROL OF INSERTION PATH FOR ASYMMETRIC TIP NEEDLES

      
Application Number 19072873
Status Pending
Filing Date 2025-03-06
First Publication Date 2025-06-19
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Fischer, Gregory S.
  • Su, Hao

Abstract

A needle steering system and apparatus provides active, semi-autonomous control of needle insertion paths while still enabling a clinician ultimate control over needle insertion. A method and system controls the needle path as the needle is inserted by precisely controlling the rotation of the needle as it continuously rotates during insertion. This enables underactuated 2 degree-of-freedom (DOF) control of the direction and the curvature of the needle from a single rotary actuator. Control of the rotary motion is therefore decoupled from the needle insertion. The rotary motion controls steering effort and direction, while the insertion controls needle depth or insertion speed. In one implementation, the proposed method does not require constant velocity insertion, interleaved insertion and rotation, or known insertion position or speed. The insertion may be provided by a robot or other automated method, may be a manual insertion, or may be a teleoperated insertion.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61M 25/01 - Introducing, guiding, advancing, emplacing or holding catheters
  • A61B 34/00 - Computer-aided surgeryManipulators or robots specially adapted for use in surgery
  • A61B 34/30 - Surgical robots
  • A61B 34/37 - Leader-follower robots
  • A61M 5/32 - NeedlesDetails of needles pertaining to their connection with syringe or hubAccessories for bringing the needle into, or holding the needle on, the bodyDevices for protection of needles
  • A61M 5/46 - Devices for bringing media into the body in a subcutaneous, intra-vascular or intramuscular wayAccessories therefor, e.g. filling or cleaning devices, arm rests having means for controlling depth of insertion

7.

Methods for Verifying Integrity and Authenticity of a Printed Circuit Board

      
Application Number 18837093
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-02-09
First Publication Date 2025-06-05
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Mosavirik, Tahoura
  • Ganji, Fatemeh
  • Schaumont, Patrick
  • Tajik, Shahin
  • Martyak Jr., Paul L.
  • Thow, Michael

Abstract

The present invention is directed to a method for verifying the integrity and authenticity of a printed circuit board, including associated components and packaging. The method is based on analyzing the power integrity of the power distribution network of the printed circuit board by measuring the S-parameter for the printed circuit board. Any tampering or counterfeiting can be determined by comparison of the S-parameter data or signature to a known authentic signature.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01R 31/28 - Testing of electronic circuits, e.g. by signal tracer
  • G01R 23/16 - Spectrum analysisFourier analysis
  • G06F 21/73 - Protecting specific internal or peripheral components, in which the protection of a component leads to protection of the entire computer to assure secure computing or processing of information by creating or determining hardware identification, e.g. serial numbers

8.

MAGNETIC TOLERANT IMAGING

      
Application Number US2024057697
Publication Number 2025/117703
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-11-27
Publication Date 2025-06-05
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Zhang, Haichong
  • Murakami, Ryo
  • Fischer, Gregory S.
  • Wang, Yang
  • Tsumura, Ryosuke

Abstract

A magnetic tolerant, multi-mode imaging device includes an elongated probe adapted for insertion into an imaging region of a first imaging modality, and an imaging sensor in rotational communication with the elongated probe, where the imaging sensor is responsive to a second imaging modality. A control circuit is configured for activating the first imaging modality and the second imaging modality for imaging over a region of interest, and an imaging circuit aligns images received from the first and second imaging modalities for registration in a common frame of reference to render a combined image.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
  • A61B 5/055 - Detecting, measuring or recording for diagnosis by means of electric currents or magnetic fieldsMeasuring using microwaves or radio waves involving electronic [EMR] or nuclear [NMR] magnetic resonance, e.g. magnetic resonance imaging

9.

WOUND ASSESSMENT AND CLASSIFICATION

      
Application Number US2024056640
Publication Number 2025/111326
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-11-20
Publication Date 2025-05-30
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Agu, Emmanuel
  • Iyer, Akshay
  • Nagpal, Raghav
  • Ditthapron, Apiwat
  • Liu, Ziyang
  • Sadaarti, Reza
  • Tulu, Bengisu
  • Strong, Diane
  • Pedersen, Peder
  • Dunn, Raymond
  • Lindsay, Clifford

Abstract

A wound care treatment platform and application employs a mobile device and application ("app") for on-site capture and gathering of wound images from a patient. The mobile device is in wireless communication with a database including health records and data and trained models of wound image classification. Based on a patient image of a wound under care, the image is analyzed for features indicative of wound health and healing progress. The mobile device invokes a plurality of models for providing an accurate and consistent assessment and treatment recommendation, including evaluating the sufficiency of the patient image gathered by the mobile device, normalizing the patient image for adverse or irregular lighting, common in patient dwellings, adjusting for a distance and angle at which the caretaker obtained the image, computing a comprehensive score of wound healing, and rendering an evaluation for referral or continuance of current outpatient care.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G16H 50/70 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data miningICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for mining of medical data, e.g. analysing previous cases of other patients
  • G16H 50/30 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data miningICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for calculating health indicesICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data miningICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for individual health risk assessment
  • G16H 30/20 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical images for handling medical images, e.g. DICOM, HL7 or PACS
  • G16H 20/00 - ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans, e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance
  • G16H 50/20 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data miningICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for computer-aided diagnosis, e.g. based on medical expert systems

10.

LIQUID METAL DEFORMATION SENSOR

      
Application Number US2024056918
Publication Number 2025/111476
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-11-21
Publication Date 2025-05-30
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Rao, Pratap
  • Pandey, Ritwik
  • Nemitz, Markus P.

Abstract

A flexible sensor invokes a fluid sensing medium in an encapsulation for detecting pressure based on movement of the fluid in the flexible encapsulation. The fluid sensing medium is a conductive liquid which exhibits a varied resistance to changes in a cross section resulting from deformation of the flexible encapsulation. A flexible substrate with a fused planar material adheres around the fluid sensing medium. The fluid sensing medium maty be deposited or placed by an extrusion or print nozzle, a screen or other selective application. A deposited bead or run of the fluid sensing medium has a viscosity for holding a shape until the flexible planar material is adhered. A narrow, elongated and patterned or curved run provides a length of encapsulated fluid which is responsive to deformation from pressure. Insertion of electrical leads at opposed ends of the run provides a measurable electrical resistance that varies with fluid movement.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01L 1/22 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress using resistance strain gauges
  • G01B 7/16 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of electric or magnetic techniques for measuring the deformation in a solid, e.g. by resistance strain gauge

11.

WOUND IMAGE GATHERING AND CLARIFICATION

      
Application Number US2024056638
Publication Number 2025/111325
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-11-20
Publication Date 2025-05-30
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Agu, Emmanuel
  • Iyer, Akshay
  • Nagpal, Raghav
  • Ditthapron, Apiwat
  • Liu, Ziyang
  • Sadaarti, Reza
  • Tulu, Bengisu
  • Strong, Diane
  • Pedersen, Peder
  • Dunn, Raymond
  • Lindsay, Clifford

Abstract

A wound care treatment platform and application employs a mobile device and application ("app") for on-site capture and gathering of wound images from a patient. The mobile device is in wireless communication with a database including health records and data and trained models of wound image classification. Based on a patient image of a wound under care, the image is analyzed for features indicative of wound health and healing progress. The mobile device invokes a plurality of models for providing an accurate and consistent assessment and treatment recommendation, including evaluating the sufficiency of the patient image gathered by the mobile device, normalizing the patient image for adverse or irregular lighting, common in patient dwellings, adjusting for a distance and angle at which the caretaker obtained the image, computing a comprehensive score of wound healing, and rendering an evaluation for referral or continuance of current outpatient care.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
  • G16H 30/20 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical images for handling medical images, e.g. DICOM, HL7 or PACS
  • G16H 20/00 - ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans, e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance

12.

CARDIAC FUNCTION ASSESSMENT AND CLASSIFICATION

      
Application Number US2024056936
Publication Number 2025/111489
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-11-21
Publication Date 2025-05-30
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Almadani, Abdulsalam
  • Agu, Emmanuel
  • Shivdeo, Abhishek
  • Sarwar, Atifa
  • Kpodonu, Jacques
  • Ahluwalia, Monica

Abstract

A cardiovascular analysis application receives patient echocardiograms as video segments and performs an analysis for cardiovascular health based on factors related to an ejection fraction and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy based on the images in the video segment and spatiotemporal features extracted from the images through several heartbeat cycles on the video segments. The models are trained on a corpus of previous echocardiograms including labels indicative of the ejection fraction and physiological markers associated with HCM, such as the cardiac wall thickness and clarity. Based on a correspondence with the model, a result is rendered indicative of whether the patient video segment has an insufficient ejection fraction and whether a presence of HCM is exhibited.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 8/00 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
  • A61B 8/08 - Clinical applications
  • G16H 30/40 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical images for processing medical images, e.g. editing
  • G16H 30/20 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical images for handling medical images, e.g. DICOM, HL7 or PACS

13.

EXPONENTIAL SIGNAL MEASUREMENT DEVICE

      
Application Number 18511573
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-11-16
First Publication Date 2025-05-29
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Costanzo, Ian
  • Sen, Devdip
  • Guler, Ulkuhan
  • Mcneill, John A.

Abstract

A nonuniform sampling device and technique and an offset immune luminescent lifetime estimation provides for sensing a gaseous presence and magnitude such as O2 levels or concentration. The partial pressure of O2 closely correlates with the lifetime of the luminescence quenched by O2. Lifetime measurements are preferred over intensity measurements because of their robustness to factors such as variations in the optical path. The disclosed approach, implemented in 180 nm CMOS, features a specialized AFE (Analog Front End) that obtains the luminescent lifetime information with 1) low noise and 2) leverages time-gated excitation, removing the need for optical filters to extract the luminescent response from the excitation light. The lifetime (τ) is calculated using the time differences between equal voltage steps and 4) a measured mean error is as accurate as 0.3%.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 5/1455 - Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration or pH-value using optical sensors, e.g. spectral photometrical oximeters

14.

MAGNETIC TOLERANT IMAGING

      
Application Number 18962176
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-11-27
First Publication Date 2025-05-29
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Zhang, Haichong
  • Murakami, Ryo
  • Fischer, Gregory S.
  • Wang, Yang
  • Tsumura, Ryosuke

Abstract

A magnetic tolerant, multi-mode imaging device includes an elongated probe adapted for insertion into an imaging region of a first imaging modality, and an imaging sensor in rotational communication with the elongated probe, where the imaging sensor is responsive to a second imaging modality. A control circuit is configured for activating the first imaging modality and the second imaging modality for imaging over a region of interest, and an imaging circuit aligns images received from the first and second imaging modalities for registration in a common frame of reference to render a combined image.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
  • A61B 5/055 - Detecting, measuring or recording for diagnosis by means of electric currents or magnetic fieldsMeasuring using microwaves or radio waves involving electronic [EMR] or nuclear [NMR] magnetic resonance, e.g. magnetic resonance imaging
  • A61B 90/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups , e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges

15.

LIQUID METAL DEFORMATION SENSOR

      
Application Number 18955546
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-11-21
First Publication Date 2025-05-22
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Rao, Pratap
  • Pandey, Ritwik
  • Nemitz, Markus P.

Abstract

A flexible sensor invokes a fluid sensing medium in an encapsulation for detecting pressure based on movement of the fluid in the flexible encapsulation. The fluid sensing medium is a conductive liquid which exhibits a varied resistance to changes in a cross section resulting from deformation of the flexible encapsulation. A flexible substrate with a fused planar material adheres around the fluid sensing medium. The fluid sensing medium maty be deposited or placed by an extrusion or print nozzle, a screen or other selective application. A deposited bead or run of the fluid sensing medium has a viscosity for holding a shape until the flexible planar material is adhered. A narrow, elongated and patterned or curved run provides a length of encapsulated fluid which is responsive to deformation from pressure. Insertion of electrical leads at opposed ends of the run provides a measurable electrical resistance that varies with fluid movement.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01L 1/22 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress using resistance strain gauges
  • G01L 5/00 - Apparatus for, or methods of, measuring force, work, mechanical power, or torque, specially adapted for specific purposes

16.

CARDIAC FUNCTION ASSESSMENT AND CLASSIFICATION

      
Application Number 18955638
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-11-21
First Publication Date 2025-05-22
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Almadani, Abdulsalam
  • Agu, Emmanuel
  • Shivdeo, Abhishek
  • Sarwar, Atifa
  • Kpodonu, Jacques
  • Ahluwalia, Monica

Abstract

A cardiovascular analysis application receives patient echocardiograms as video segments and performs an analysis for cardiovascular health based on factors related to an ejection fraction and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy based on the images in the video segment and spatiotemporal features extracted from the images through several heartbeat cycles on the video segments. The models are trained on a corpus of previous echocardiograms including labels indicative of the ejection fraction and physiological markers associated with HCM, such as the cardiac wall thickness and clarity. Based on a correspondence with the model, a result is rendered indicative of whether the patient video segment has an insufficient ejection fraction and whether a presence of HCM is exhibited.

IPC Classes  ?

17.

MINIATURIZED BIMODAL OXYGEN MONITORING WEARABLE DEVICE

      
Application Number US2024056311
Publication Number 2025/106943
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-11-16
Publication Date 2025-05-22
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Guler, Ulkuhan
  • Vakhter, Vladimir
  • Kahraman, Burak

Abstract

A miniaturized wireless bimodal oxygenation status monitoring wearable device that continuously monitors both the transcutaneous oxygen and peripheral blood oxygen saturation and overcomes the limitations of the traditional transcutaneous oxygen monitors such as requiring a heating element and a large, expensive bedside monitor that prevents continuous monitoring outside a clinical setting.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 5/1455 - Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration or pH-value using optical sensors, e.g. spectral photometrical oximeters
  • A61B 5/024 - Measuring pulse rate or heart rate
  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons

18.

WOUND IMAGE GATHERING AND CLARIFICATION

      
Application Number 18953632
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-11-20
First Publication Date 2025-05-22
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Agu, Emmanuel
  • Iyer, Akshay
  • Nagpal, Raghav
  • Ditthapron, Apiwat
  • Liu, Ziyang
  • Sadaarti, Reza
  • Tulu, Bengisu
  • Strong, Diane
  • Pedersen, Peder
  • Dunn, Raymond
  • Lindsay, Clifford

Abstract

A wound care treatment platform and application employs a mobile device and application (“app”) for on-site capture and gathering of wound images from a patient. The mobile device is in wireless communication with a database including health records and data and trained models of wound image classification. Based on a patient image of a wound under care, the image is analyzed for features indicative of wound health and healing progress. The mobile device invokes a plurality of models for providing an accurate and consistent assessment and treatment recommendation, including evaluating the sufficiency of the patient image gathered by the mobile device, normalizing the patient image for adverse or irregular lighting, common in patient dwellings, adjusting for a distance and angle at which the caretaker obtained the image, computing a comprehensive score of wound healing, and rendering an evaluation for referral or continuance of current outpatient care.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
  • G06T 3/40 - Scaling of whole images or parts thereof, e.g. expanding or contracting
  • G06T 5/73 - DeblurringSharpening
  • G06T 5/90 - Dynamic range modification of images or parts thereof
  • G16H 30/40 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical images for processing medical images, e.g. editing
  • G16H 50/30 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data miningICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for calculating health indicesICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data miningICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for individual health risk assessment

19.

WOUND ASSESSMENT AND CLASSIFICATION

      
Application Number 18953643
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-11-20
First Publication Date 2025-05-22
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Agu, Emmanuel
  • Iyer, Akshay
  • Nagpal, Raghav
  • Ditthapron, Apiwat
  • Liu, Ziyang
  • Sadaarti, Reza
  • Tulu, Bengisu
  • Strong, Diane
  • Pedersen, Peder
  • Dunn, Raymond
  • Lindsay, Clifford

Abstract

A wound care treatment platform and application employs a mobile device and application (“app”) for on-site capture and gathering of wound images from a patient. The mobile device is in wireless communication with a database including health records and data and trained models of wound image classification. Based on a patient image of a wound under care, the image is analyzed for features indicative of wound health and healing progress. The mobile device invokes a plurality of models for providing an accurate and consistent assessment and treatment recommendation, including evaluating the sufficiency of the patient image gathered by the mobile device, normalizing the patient image for adverse or irregular lighting, common in patient dwellings, adjusting for a distance and angle at which the caretaker obtained the image, computing a comprehensive score of wound healing, and rendering an evaluation for referral or continuance of current outpatient care.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G16H 50/30 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data miningICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for calculating health indicesICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data miningICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for individual health risk assessment
  • G06F 40/279 - Recognition of textual entities
  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
  • G06T 11/00 - 2D [Two Dimensional] image generation
  • G06V 10/44 - Local feature extraction by analysis of parts of the pattern, e.g. by detecting edges, contours, loops, corners, strokes or intersectionsConnectivity analysis, e.g. of connected components
  • G06V 10/74 - Image or video pattern matchingProximity measures in feature spaces
  • G06V 10/764 - Arrangements for image or video recognition or understanding using pattern recognition or machine learning using classification, e.g. of video objects
  • G06V 10/774 - Generating sets of training patternsBootstrap methods, e.g. bagging or boosting
  • G06V 20/70 - Labelling scene content, e.g. deriving syntactic or semantic representations
  • G16H 30/40 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical images for processing medical images, e.g. editing

20.

FLEXIBLE SPINDLE POLISHING

      
Application Number US2024055667
Publication Number 2025/106506
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-11-13
Publication Date 2025-05-22
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Zheng, Yihao
  • Chernjavsky, Patrick
  • Shanks, Jack

Abstract

Precise surface treatment and finishing of an enclosed, non-linear channel through a 3-dimensional printed, additively manufactured or machined part or workpiece results from insertion of a grinding wheel on a flexible shaft and controlling an orbital movement though rotational speed, grit selection and fluid viscosity of a liquid medium in the channel. Drive logic rotates the flexible shaft for controlled rotation as the orbital movement or pattern achieves controlled contact with the interior channel surface. Rotational contact by the grinding wheel removes material based on a grit size, while the orbit is controlled through the rotation, viscosity and grit size for achieving uniform coverage of the interior surface. An internal geometry, typically circular or elliptical, is preserved while attaining a smooth surface through precise material removal resulting from the controlled orbit.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B24B 5/40 - Single-purpose machines or devices for grinding tubes internally
  • B24B 5/48 - Single-purpose machines or devices for grinding walls of very fine holes, e.g. in drawing-dies
  • B24B 57/02 - Devices for feeding, applying, grading or recovering grinding, polishing or lapping agents for feeding of fluid, sprayed, pulverised, or liquefied grinding, polishing or lapping agents

21.

FLEXIBLE SPINDLE POLISHING

      
Application Number 18946169
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-11-13
First Publication Date 2025-05-15
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Zheng, Yihao
  • Chernjavsky, Patrick
  • Shanks, Jack

Abstract

Precise surface treatment and finishing of an enclosed, non-linear channel through a 3-dimensional printed, additively manufactured or machined part or workpiece results from insertion of a grinding wheel on a flexible shaft and controlling an orbital movement though rotational speed, grit selection and fluid viscosity of a liquid medium in the channel. Drive logic rotates the flexible shaft for controlled rotation as the orbital movement or pattern achieves controlled contact with the interior channel surface. Rotational contact by the grinding wheel removes material based on a grit size, while the orbit is controlled through the rotation, viscosity and grit size for achieving uniform coverage of the interior surface. An internal geometry, typically circular or elliptical, is preserved while attaining a smooth surface through precise material removal resulting from the controlled orbit.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B24B 47/20 - Drives or gearings for grinding machines or devicesEquipment therefor relating to feed movement
  • B24B 37/02 - Lapping machines or devicesAccessories designed for working surfaces of revolution
  • B24B 57/02 - Devices for feeding, applying, grading or recovering grinding, polishing or lapping agents for feeding of fluid, sprayed, pulverised, or liquefied grinding, polishing or lapping agents

22.

ALKALI MICROWAVE EXTRACTION

      
Application Number US2024054083
Publication Number 2025/096915
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-11-01
Publication Date 2025-05-08
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Tanvar, Himanshu
  • Mishra, Brajendra

Abstract

Niobium and tantalum extraction industries heavily depend on fluoride chemistry for metal oxide production. A fluoride-free approach utilizes alkali treatment for selective dissolution of niobium and tantalum phases. The application of microwave heating in the alkali treatment of columbite significantly reduced the processing time, providing a higher reaction rate and recovery than furnace or convection heating. Purified oxides are recovered using either direct precipitation or solvent extraction.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C01G 33/00 - Compounds of niobium
  • C01G 35/00 - Compounds of tantalum
  • B01J 19/12 - Processes employing the direct application of electric or wave energy, or particle radiationApparatus therefor employing electromagnetic waves

23.

LOW TEMPERATURE, LOW EMISSION IRON PRODUCTION

      
Application Number US2024054086
Publication Number 2025/096918
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-11-01
Publication Date 2025-05-08
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Wang, Yan
  • Thanwisai, Panya
  • Yao, Zeyi

Abstract

22322 gas as a byproduct.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C25C 5/04 - Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metal powders or porous metal masses from melts
  • C25C 3/36 - Alloys obtained by cathodic reduction of all their ions

24.

POLYMER-CONDUCTOR MATRIX ELECTRICAL INTERCONNECT

      
Application Number 18936456
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-11-04
First Publication Date 2025-05-08
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Rao, Pratap
  • Pandey, Ritwik
  • Akkaya, Ceren Yilmaz
  • Nemitz, Markus P.
  • Aygul, Cem

Abstract

A surface treatment of a printed trace improves electrical conductivity at a contact area defining an insertion or engagement of a circuit element. Mechanical and chemical treatment at a contact area of an extruded trace generated from 3-dimensional (3D) printing techniques mitigates resistance of the surface. A conductive trace may be extruded from a conductive filament material including conductive granules, flakes or powder. A solvent or etchant applied to the extruded surface at the contact point removes, dissolves or otherwise abrades the contact area. A mechanical drilling or incision may also be applied. Dissolution of the non-conductive material exposes the conductive material for improved contact with a conductive epoxy or paste applied to the contact area for receiving a conductive terminal (pin or pad) from a circuit element.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H05K 3/10 - Apparatus or processes for manufacturing printed circuits in which conductive material is applied to the insulating support in such a manner as to form the desired conductive pattern
  • H05K 3/04 - Apparatus or processes for manufacturing printed circuits in which the conductive material is applied to the surface of the insulating support and is thereafter removed from such areas of the surface which are not intended for current conducting or shielding the conductive material being removed mechanically, e.g. by punching
  • H05K 3/06 - Apparatus or processes for manufacturing printed circuits in which the conductive material is applied to the surface of the insulating support and is thereafter removed from such areas of the surface which are not intended for current conducting or shielding the conductive material being removed chemically or electrolytically, e.g. by photo-etch process

25.

POLYMER-CONDUCTOR MATRIX ELECTRICAL INTERCONNECT

      
Application Number US2024054395
Publication Number 2025/097125
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-11-04
Publication Date 2025-05-08
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Rao, Pratap
  • Pandey, Ritwik
  • Akkaya, Ceren Yilmaz
  • Nemitz, Markus P.
  • Aygul, Cem

Abstract

A surface treatment of a printed trace improves electrical conductivity at a contact area defining an insertion or engagement of a circuit element. Mechanical and chemical treatment at a contact area of an extruded trace generated from 3-dimensional (3D) printing techniques mitigates resistance of the surface. A conductive trace may be extruded from a conductive filament material including conductive granules, flakes or powder. A solvent or etchant applied to the extruded surface at the contact point removes, dissolves or otherwise abrades the contact area. A mechanical drilling or incision may also be applied. Dissolution of the non-conductive material exposes the conductive material for improved contact with a conductive epoxy or paste applied to the contact area for receiving a conductive terminal (pin or pad) from a circuit element.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H05K 3/14 - Apparatus or processes for manufacturing printed circuits in which conductive material is applied to the insulating support in such a manner as to form the desired conductive pattern using spraying techniques to apply the conductive material
  • H05K 1/09 - Use of materials for the metallic pattern
  • H05K 3/32 - Assembling printed circuits with electric components, e.g. with resistor electrically connecting electric components or wires to printed circuits

26.

ALKALI MICROWAVE EXTRACTION

      
Application Number 18934545
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-11-01
First Publication Date 2025-05-01
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Tanvar, Himanshu
  • Mishra, Brajendra

Abstract

Niobium and tantalum extraction industries heavily depend on fluoride chemistry for metal oxide production. A fluoride-free approach utilizes alkali treatment for selective dissolution of niobium and tantalum phases. The application of microwave heating in the alkali treatment of columbite significantly reduced the processing time, providing a higher reaction rate and recovery than furnace or convection heating. Purified oxides are recovered using either direct precipitation or solvent extraction.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C22B 34/24 - Obtaining niobium or tantalum
  • C22B 3/04 - Extraction of metal compounds from ores or concentrates by wet processes by leaching
  • C22B 3/44 - Treatment or purification of solutions, e.g. obtained by leaching by chemical processes
  • C22B 4/04 - Heavy metals

27.

LOW TEMPERATURE, LOW EMISSION IRON PRODUCTION

      
Application Number 18934563
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-11-01
First Publication Date 2025-05-01
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Wang, Yan
  • Thanwisai, Panya
  • Yao, Zeyi

Abstract

Production of high purity iron powder employs high efficiency low temperature electrolysis resulting in a process requiring substantially less energy with no CO2 gas and has high energy reduction. Configurations provide a renewable electricity supply that is environmental benign with low energy consumption. A hematite (Fe2O3), carbon and highly concentrated NaOH combine to form an electronically and ionically conductive suspension for iron production. The suspension is flowable which can also be applied to a flow electrolysis system. High purity iron powder is produced at the cathode side while the anode side can produce O2 gas as a byproduct.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C25C 1/06 - Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of solutions of iron group metals, refractory metals or manganese

28.

CHARGE-TO-DIGITAL CONVERTER FOR TIME-DOMAIN DUAL LIFETIME REFERENCING

      
Application Number US2024052553
Publication Number 2025/090597
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-10-23
Publication Date 2025-05-01
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Guler, Ulkuhan
  • Tufan, Tuna B.
  • Mcneill, John A.

Abstract

A wearable, miniaturized wireless device provides accurate measurement of transcutaneous carbon dioxide diffusing though the skin detects a luminescent response of a carbon dioxide-sensitive film, providing an accurate reflection of a person's blood carbon dioxide levels. The device employs a charge-to-digital converter (CDC) architecture operable for implementation of a time-domain dual lifetime referencing computation to measure transcutaneous carbon dioxide. This potential product enables highly accurate and precise measurements of transcutaneous carbon dioxide while minimizing interference from confounding factors.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 5/1455 - Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration or pH-value using optical sensors, e.g. spectral photometrical oximeters
  • A61B 5/145 - Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration or pH-value
  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons

29.

CHARGE-TO-DIGITAL CONVERTER FOR TIME-DOMAIN DUAL LIFETIME REFERENCING

      
Application Number 18924362
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-10-23
First Publication Date 2025-04-24
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Guler, Ulkuhan
  • Tufan, Tuna B.
  • Mcneill, John A.

Abstract

A wearable, miniaturized wireless device provides accurate measurement of transcutaneous carbon dioxide diffusing though the skin detects a luminescent response of a carbon dioxide-sensitive film, providing an accurate reflection of a person's blood carbon dioxide levels. The device employs a charge-to-digital converter (CDC) architecture operable for implementation of a time-domain dual lifetime referencing computation to measure transcutaneous carbon dioxide. This potential product enables highly accurate and precise measurements of transcutaneous carbon dioxide while minimizing interference from confounding factors.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01N 21/31 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry
  • G01N 33/00 - Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups

30.

SPLIT SOLE INDEPENDENTLY ADJUSTABLE LOAD-LIMITING FOOTWEAR

      
Application Number 18912450
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-10-10
First Publication Date 2025-04-17
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Brown, Christopher A.
  • Kohanski, David J.
  • Rosivach, Katherine S.
  • Ball, Henry D.

Abstract

A force absorbing device for a footwear appliance includes a shoe upper and a shoe sole having a planar sole surface, such that forces between the shoe upper and planar sole surface in ground contact are absorbed by storage and controlled release of kinetic energy in an elastic or resilient field. A footwear article such as a shoe or boot includes a split-sole system that redefines a shoe sole as coplanar surfaces having a force mitigating interface for receiving sudden forces and effectively mitigating these forces by storing kinetic energy and releasing it over time. An elastic field in the force mitigation interface is defined by a resilient material adapted to deform in response to the received force. Frictional engagement between the upper and lower sole may also be augmented by surface characteristics such as dimples, voids and lubricants, in addition to interference engagement with an elastic field.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A43B 13/16 - Pieced soles
  • A43B 7/32 - Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with shock-absorbing means
  • A43B 13/14 - SolesSole-and-heel integral units characterised by the constructive form

31.

SPLIT SOLE INDEPENDENTLY ADJUSTABLE LOAD-LIMITING FOOTWEAR

      
Application Number US2024050841
Publication Number 2025/080886
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-10-10
Publication Date 2025-04-17
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITTUE (USA)
Inventor
  • Brown, Christopher A.
  • Kohanski, David J.
  • Rosivach, Katherine S.
  • Ball, Henry D.

Abstract

A force absorbing device for a footwear appliance includes a shoe upper and a shoe sole having a planar sole surface, such that forces between the shoe upper and planar sole surface in ground contact are absorbed by storage and controlled release of kinetic energy in an elastic or resilient field. A footwear article such as a shoe or boot includes a split-sole system that redefines a shoe sole as coplanar surfaces having a force mitigating interface for receiving sudden forces and effectively mitigating these forces by storing kinetic energy and releasing it over time. An elastic field in the force mitigation interface is defined by a resilient material adapted to deform in response to the received force. Frictional engagement between the upper and lower sole may also be augmented by surface characteristics such as dimples, voids and lubricants, in addition to interference engagement with an elastic field.

IPC Classes  ?

32.

GRAPHENE COATED COMPONENTS FOR SUPERLUBRICITY

      
Application Number 18634107
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-04-12
First Publication Date 2025-04-17
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Asumadu, Tabiri K.
  • Vandadi, Mobin
  • Mensah-Darkwa, Kwadwo
  • Gikunoo, Emmanuel
  • Kwofie, Samuel
  • Klenam, Desmond E.P.
  • Rahbar, Nima
  • Soboyejo, Winston O.

Abstract

A carbon coating such as graphene formed on an article or component forms a reduced friction surface on the component. The graphene forms a superlubricity coating for mitigating friction against engaged, moving surfaces. A metallic component receives a graphene coating resulting from a high temperature biowaste treatment (HTBT) by surrounding the metallic component with a granular biowaste medium defining a carbon source, and heating the metallic component in the biowaste medium for diffusing carbon from the biowaste medium to aggregate on a surface of the component, thereby forming a graphene coating.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C10M 177/00 - Special methods of preparation of lubricating compositionsChemical modification by after-treatment of components or of the whole of a lubricating composition, not covered by other classes
  • C10M 103/02 - CarbonGraphite
  • C10N 50/08 - Form in which the lubricant is applied to the material being lubricated solid
  • C10N 70/00 - Special methods of preparation
  • C23C 8/64 - Carburising

33.

WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE 1865 LEHR UND KUNST WPI

      
Serial Number 99088119
Status Pending
Filing Date 2025-03-17
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute ()
NICE Classes  ? 25 - Clothing; footwear; headgear

Goods & Services

Clothing, namely, shirts, t-shirts, shorts, athletic shirts, long sleeve shirts, sweatshirts, sweatpants, tank tops, and socks

34.

MINIATURIZED BIMODAL OXYGEN MONITORING WEARABLE DEVICE

      
Application Number 18950028
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-11-16
First Publication Date 2025-03-06
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Guler, Ulkuhan
  • Vakhter, Vladimir
  • Kahraman, Burak

Abstract

A miniaturized wireless bimodal oxygenation status monitoring wearable device that continuously monitors both the transcutaneous oxygen and peripheral blood oxygen saturation and overcomes the limitations of the traditional transcutaneous oxygen monitors such as requiring a heating element and a large, expensive bedside monitor that prevents continuous monitoring outside a clinical setting.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 10/00 - Instruments for taking body samples for diagnostic purposesOther methods or instruments for diagnosis, e.g. for vaccination diagnosis, sex determination or ovulation-period determinationThroat striking implements
  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
  • A61B 5/145 - Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration or pH-value

35.

VIRTUAL AND MIXED SPACE-TIME SCALABLE AMALGAMATION SYSTEM

      
Application Number 18821632
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-08-30
First Publication Date 2025-03-06
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Vantsevich, Vladimir V.
  • Moradi, Lee
  • Zhang, Siyuan
  • Ghasemi, Masood
  • Paldan, Jesse R.

Abstract

A Metaverse Laboratory (ML) is a self-contained comprehensive research and development (R&D) laboratory facility for hybrid modeling and simulation, conceptual and engineering design, prototyping, and experimentation in an operational environment (real, virtual, or augmented) by analyzing consequences based on simulated or actual (live) inputs from either human actors and/or predetermined scenarios. A physical facility encloses a rendering area configured to receive projected images and physical devices or objects. User interaction may be accompanied by image rendering goggles in conjunction with physical interactions with vehicles, objects and/or other users disposed in the rendering area. Computing equipment for driving a rendered scenario directs the outputs including visual and tactile feedback according to the scenario, and input from sensors and users in the rendering area determines a computed response. The collective facility provides a generalized environment for programmed realities for modeling and simulation combined with tangible objects, devices and human actors.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 30/15 - Vehicle, aircraft or watercraft design

36.

VIRTUAL AND MIXED SPACE-TIME SCALABLE AMALGAMATION SYSTEM

      
Application Number US2024044836
Publication Number 2025/050022
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-08-30
Publication Date 2025-03-06
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Vantsevich, Vladimir V.
  • Moradi, Lee
  • Zhang, Siyuan
  • Ghasemi, Masood
  • Paldan, Jesse R.

Abstract

(real, virtual, or augmented) by analyzing consequences based on simulated or actual (live) inputs from either human actors and/or predetermined scenarios. A physical facility encloses a rendering area configured to receive projected images and physical devices or objects. User interaction may be accompanied by image rendering goggles in conjunction with physical interactions with vehicles, objects and/or other users disposed in the rendering area. Computing equipment for driving a rendered scenario directs the outputs including visual and tactile feedback according to the scenario, and input from sensors and users in the rendering area determines a computed response. The collective facility provides a generalized environment for programmed realities for modeling and simulation combined with tangible objects, devices and human actors.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06T 19/00 - Manipulating 3D models or images for computer graphics
  • G06F 30/20 - Design optimisation, verification or simulation

37.

SOLAR PANEL RECYCLING

      
Application Number 18800633
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-08-12
First Publication Date 2025-02-13
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Wang, Yan
  • Ma, Xiaotu
  • Wang, Owen

Abstract

A recycling process for exhausted, end-of-life solar panels achieves substantial recovery of silicon and silver, as well as other materials, from a recycling stream of discarded solar panels. Agitation and shredding of the solar panels yield a granular mass, which can be separated by particle size to yield the silicon rich solar cell material. Leaching with a strong base such as sodium hydroxide draws the silicon into the leach solution. Filtration of the leach solution draws off the silicon-rich solution and allows filtration of other valuable materials such as silver. Addition of an acid such as hydrochloric acid to the leach solution then precipitates the silicon into a nano silica powder of in the form of high purity silicon dioxide. The high purity silicon dioxide provides raw materials for recycled solar panels, lithium-ion batteries and other uses depending on the purity.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B09B 3/80 - Destroying solid waste or transforming solid waste into something useful or harmless involving an extraction step
  • B09B 3/38 - Stirring or kneading
  • B09B 3/70 - Chemical treatment, e.g. pH adjustment or oxidation
  • B09B 101/15 - Electronic waste
  • C01B 33/18 - Preparation of finely divided silica neither in sol nor in gel formAfter-treatment thereof

38.

SOLAR PANEL RECYCLING

      
Application Number US2024041901
Publication Number 2025/035146
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-08-12
Publication Date 2025-02-13
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Wang, Yan
  • Ma, Xiaotu
  • Wang, Owen

Abstract

A recycling process for exhausted, end-of-life solar panels achieves substantial recovery of silicon and silver, as well as other materials, from a recycling stream of discarded solar panels. Agitation and shredding of the solar panels yield a granular mass, which can be separated by particle size to yield the silicon rich solar cell material. Leaching with a strong base such as sodium hydroxide draws the silicon into the leach solution. Filtration of the leach solution draws off the silicon-rich solution and allows filtration of other valuable materials such as silver. Addition of an acid such as hydrochloric acid to the leach solution then precipitates the silicon into a nano silica powder of in the form of high purity silicon dioxide. The high purity silicon dioxide provides raw materials for recycled solar panels, lithium-ion batteries and other uses depending on the purity.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B09B 3/80 - Destroying solid waste or transforming solid waste into something useful or harmless involving an extraction step
  • B09B 3/70 - Chemical treatment, e.g. pH adjustment or oxidation
  • B09B 3/38 - Stirring or kneading
  • B09B 101/15 - Electronic waste

39.

ROBOTIC PATH PLANNING

      
Application Number 18787513
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-07-29
First Publication Date 2025-01-30
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Mcgovern, Sean
  • Xiao, Jing

Abstract

A generalized approach and methodology for addressing surface traversal and coverage of a 3 Dimensional (3-D) object receives a 3-D wireframe or similar Cartesian based representation, converts the 3-D representation to a u,v system or mapping. Often employed for texture mapping, u.v grid systems define a two dimensional form of an object, often referred to as “unfolding” of an object. Configurations herein define a u.v grid system directly on the 3-D object for computing a coverage path, typically an aggregation of raster passes to traverse an entire 3-D surface. From a robotic manipulator, a 3D freeform surface, and task constraints, the approach determines whether there exists a feasible continuous motion plan to cover the surface, and if so, produces a uniform coverage path that best satisfies task constraints resulting from the physical object and robot kinematics.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B25J 9/16 - Programme controls
  • B25J 9/02 - Programme-controlled manipulators characterised by movement of the arms, e.g. cartesian co-ordinate type

40.

ROBOTIC PATH PLANNING

      
Application Number US2024040039
Publication Number 2025/024852
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-07-29
Publication Date 2025-01-30
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Xiao, Jing
  • Mcgovern, Sean

Abstract

u,vu.vu.vu.v grid system directly on the 3-D object for computing a coverage path, typically an aggregation of raster passes to traverse an entire 3-D surface. From a robotic manipulator, a 3D freeform surface, and task constraints, the approach determines whether there exists a feasible continuous motion plan to cover the surface, and if so, produces a uniform coverage path that best satisfies task constraints resulting from the physical object and robot kinematics.

IPC Classes  ?

41.

FOURIER DOT PRODUCT ANALOG MATRIX MULTIPLIER DEVICE

      
Application Number 18777818
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-07-19
First Publication Date 2025-01-23
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Adiletta, Jack
  • Guler, Ukluhan

Abstract

Embodiments of the present innovation relate to a Fourier dot product analog matrix multiplier device. In one arrangement, the analog matrix multiplier device is configured as a set of analog transistor circuits and can include a set of signal generators and a Fourier dot product circuit. The components of the analog matrix multiplier device are configured to perform a Fourier dot product multiplication process relative to coefficients received by the analog matrix multiplier device. The Fourier dot product analog matrix multiplier device leverages the low power capabilities of analog circuits and a mathematical algorithm to reduce the number of components and power required to perform matrix multiplication.

IPC Classes  ?

42.

FOURIER DOT PRODUCT ANALOG MATRIX MULTIPLIER DEVICE

      
Application Number US2024038658
Publication Number 2025/019734
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-07-19
Publication Date 2025-01-23
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Adiletta, Jack
  • Guler, Ukluhan

Abstract

Embodiments of the present innovation relate to a Fourier dot product analog matrix multiplier device. In one arrangement, the analog matrix multiplier device is configured as a set of analog transistor circuits and can include a set of signal generators and a Fourier dot product circuit. The components of the analog matrix multiplier device are configured to perform a Fourier dot product multiplication process relative to coefficients received by the analog matrix multiplier device. The Fourier dot product analog matrix multiplier device leverages the low power capabilities of analog circuits and a mathematical algorithm to reduce the number of components and power required to perform matrix multiplication.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 17/16 - Matrix or vector computation
  • G06N 3/065 - Analogue means
  • G06G 7/48 - Analogue computers for specific processes, systems, or devices, e.g. simulators
  • G06G 7/16 - Arrangements for performing computing operations, e.g. amplifiers specially adapted therefor for multiplication or division
  • G06J 1/00 - Hybrid computing arrangements
  • G06F 30/331 - Design verification, e.g. functional simulation or model checking using simulation with hardware acceleration, e.g. by using field programmable gate array [FPGA] or emulation
  • G06G 3/04 - Devices in which the computing operation is performed mechanically for performing multiplications or divisions, e.g. variable-ratio gearing
  • G06F 7/544 - Methods or arrangements for performing computations using exclusively denominational number representation, e.g. using binary, ternary, decimal representation using non-contact-making devices, e.g. tube, solid state deviceMethods or arrangements for performing computations using exclusively denominational number representation, e.g. using binary, ternary, decimal representation using unspecified devices for evaluating functions by calculation

43.

MICROCHANNEL PRINTING

      
Application Number 17971393
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-10-21
First Publication Date 2025-01-09
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Rao, Pratap
  • Berg, John S.
  • Shalmani, Maryam M.

Abstract

Nanoimprint lithography forms a microfeature array on a substrate responsive to inkjet printing techniques for high resolution printing of circuit elements and other features with highly accurate fidelity to predetermined boundaries. The microfeature array is defined by micropillars formed between intersecting microchannels in the substrate. The micropillars are responsive to a sequence of ink droplets in a highly controlled and predictable manner based on the droplet volume, droplet spacing and temperature. The flow of liquid ink is restrained by the micropillars for pinning the ink for avoiding uncontrolled ink flow as occurs on a flat surface. Subsequent layers of deposited ink tend to follow pining of previous layers, allowing an iterative buildup of layers for forming a trace of sufficient thickness and a high aspect ratio allowing traces extending above the depth of the microchannels for aiding communication with surface mount components.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G03F 7/00 - Photomechanical, e.g. photolithographic, production of textured or patterned surfaces, e.g. printed surfacesMaterials therefor, e.g. comprising photoresistsApparatus specially adapted therefor
  • B41F 19/00 - Apparatus or machines for carrying out printing operations combined with other operations
  • H05K 3/12 - Apparatus or processes for manufacturing printed circuits in which conductive material is applied to the insulating support in such a manner as to form the desired conductive pattern using printing techniques to apply the conductive material

44.

MODULAR STRUCTURAL BUILDING SYSTEM AND DEVICE

      
Application Number 18748901
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-06-20
First Publication Date 2024-12-26
Owner Worcester Poytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor Leonardi, Douglas

Abstract

A modular building system includes a joint for interconnecting a network of struts in a tetrahedral arrangement for forming a structural component supporting a floor, ceiling or post. The interconnected struts have a uniform length and join together with other struts at a predetermined angle defined by the joint. Once connected, the struts and joints form a tensioned network of a load bearing surface or post, where the members are in a tensioned arrangement at an equilibrium. External forces, such as moving loads, winds, and rain tend to spread the loads across the network of tensioned members, temporarily resulting in compression along some of the rigid struts. Panels join the strut network or lattice by load caps secured to the joints for receiving triangular panels matching the joint spacing.

IPC Classes  ?

  • E04B 1/19 - Three-dimensional framework structures

45.

Concussion Detection System and Method of Operation

      
Application Number 18598664
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-03-07
First Publication Date 2024-12-26
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Ji, Songbai
  • Wu, Shaoju

Abstract

A concussion detection system comprises a kinematic detection device configured to be carried by a head of a user and a concussion detection device disposed in electrical communication with the kinematic detection device. The concussion detection device comprises a controller configured to: receive kinematic data from the kinematic detection device, the kinematic data associated with a head impact of the user, apply the kinematic data to a strain prediction engine to generate a strain identifier associated with the head impact and a concussion risk assessment associated with the strain identifier, and output the concussion risk assessment based upon the strain identifier and configured to identify a concussion risk associated with the head impact. The concussion detection device can assess concussion risk in the user for an individual impact, or based on a history of multiple head impacts, and can further take into account head or brain size differences.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
  • A61B 5/11 - Measuring movement of the entire body or parts thereof, e.g. head or hand tremor or mobility of a limb

46.

Surgical Head Clamp and Robotics Platform

      
Application Number 18827256
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-09-06
First Publication Date 2024-12-26
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Fischer, Gregory S.
  • Piecuch, Benjamin
  • Kasvikis, Dino
  • Genova, Perry A.

Abstract

A surgical head clamp and robotics platform secures a head of a patient and positions an instrument relative to the head for a medical procedure. The head clamp and robotics platform comprises a planar C-shaped frame for at least partially encircling the head of a patient. An instrument arm is mounted is to a free distal end of one arm member of the frame. The instrument arm extends away from the arm member in a direction transverse to the plane of the frame. The instrument arm includes a base mounted to the arm member for movement along three degrees of freedom relative to the frame, a proximal portion extending from and pivotally connected to the base, and a distal instrument holder extending from and pivotally connected to the proximal portion. The instrument arm functions to selectively position the instrument in an angular position relative to the head clamp.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 90/14 - Fixators for body parts, e.g. skull clampsConstructional details of fixators, e.g. pins
  • A61B 17/00 - Surgical instruments, devices or methods
  • A61B 34/00 - Computer-aided surgeryManipulators or robots specially adapted for use in surgery
  • A61B 34/20 - Surgical navigation systemsDevices for tracking or guiding surgical instruments, e.g. for frameless stereotaxis
  • A61B 34/30 - Surgical robots
  • A61B 50/13 - Trolleys
  • A61B 90/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups , e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges
  • A61B 90/50 - Supports for surgical instruments, e.g. articulated arms

47.

MODULAR STRUCTURAL BUILDING SYSTEM AND DEVICE

      
Application Number US2024034759
Publication Number 2024/263734
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-06-20
Publication Date 2024-12-26
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor Leonardi, Douglas

Abstract

A modular building system includes a joint for interconnecting a network of struts in a tetrahedral arrangement for forming a structural component supporting a floor, ceiling or post. The interconnected struts have a uniform length and join together with other struts at a predetermined angle defined by the joint. Once connected, the struts and joints form a tensioned network of a load bearing surface or post, where the members are in a tensioned arrangement at an equilibrium. External forces, such as moving loads, winds, and rain tend to spread the loads across the network of tensioned members, temporarily resulting in compression along some of the rigid struts. Panels join the strut network or lattice by load caps secured to the joints for receiving triangular panels matching the joint spacing.

IPC Classes  ?

  • E04B 1/38 - Connections for building structures in general
  • E04B 1/343 - Structures characterised by movable, separable, or collapsible parts, e.g. for transport
  • E04B 1/348 - Structures composed of units comprising at least considerable parts of two sides of a room, e.g. box-like or cell-like units closed or in skeleton form
  • E04H 1/00 - Buildings or groups of buildings for dwelling or office purposesGeneral layout, e.g. modular co-ordination or staggered storeys
  • E04B 1/24 - Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons the supporting parts consisting of metal

48.

LIMESTONE PRODUCTION

      
Application Number 18736950
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-06-07
First Publication Date 2024-12-12
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Teixeira, Andrew R.
  • Timko, Michael T.
  • Kenney, David

Abstract

A recycling and waste management process receives municipal solid waste (MSW) with substantial organic content to form a self-sustaining Hydrothermal Mineralization (HTM) process based on Supercritical Water Oxidation (SCWO) to receive supercritical steam and carbon dioxide with potential for electrical generation before forming calcium carbonate suitable for concrete production. Hydrothermal mineralization (HTM) provides a rapid elimination of organic wastes while simultaneously producing a non-emissive and thermally stable cement additive to act as a carbon sink. Hydrothermal mineralization (HTM) provides a rapid disposal pathway for organic wastes, a green source of electricity and a final product that can be coupled with traditional and alternative cement productions to reduce carbon footprints of cement production.

IPC Classes  ?

49.

CHARGE MATERIAL FOR RECYCLED LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES

      
Application Number 18805482
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-08-14
First Publication Date 2024-12-12
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Wang, Yan
  • Gratz, Eric
  • Sa, Qina
  • Zheng, Zhangfeng
  • Heelan, Joseph
  • Kim, Kee-Chan

Abstract

Cathode material from exhausted lithium ion batteries are dissolved in a solution for extracting the useful elements Co (cobalt), Ni (nickel), Al (Aluminum) and Mn (manganese) to produce active cathode materials for new batteries. The solution includes compounds of desirable materials such as cobalt, nickel, aluminum and manganese dissolved as compounds from the exhausted cathode material of spent cells. Depending on a desired proportion, or ratio, of the desired materials, raw materials are added to the solution to achieve the desired ratio of the commingled compounds for the recycled cathode material for new cells. The desired materials precipitate out of solution without extensive heating or separation of the desired materials into individual compounds or elements. The resulting active cathode material has the predetermined ratio for use in new cells, and avoids high heat typically required to separate the useful elements because the desired materials remain commingled in solution.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 10/54 - Reclaiming serviceable parts of waste accumulators
  • C22B 1/24 - BindingBriquetting
  • C22B 3/00 - Extraction of metal compounds from ores or concentrates by wet processes
  • C22B 7/00 - Working-up raw materials other than ores, e.g. scrap, to produce non-ferrous metals or compounds thereof
  • C22B 26/22 - Obtaining magnesium

50.

LIMESTONE PRODUCTION

      
Application Number US2024032939
Publication Number 2024/254402
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-06-07
Publication Date 2024-12-12
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Teixeira, Andrew R.
  • Timko, Michael T.
  • Kenney, David

Abstract

A recycling and waste management process receives municipal solid waste (MSW) with substantial organic content to form a self-sustaining Hydrothermal Mineralization (HTM) process based on Supercritical Water Oxidation (SCWO) to receive supercritical steam and carbon dioxide with potential for electrical generation before forming calcium carbonate suitable for concrete production. Hydrothermal mineralization (HTM) provides a rapid elimination of organic wastes while simultaneously producing a non-emissive and thermally stable cement additive to act as a carbon sink. Hydrothermal mineralization (HTM) provides a rapid disposal pathway for organic wastes, a green source of electricity and a final product that can be coupled with traditional and alternative cement productions to reduce carbon footprints of cement production.

IPC Classes  ?

51.

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR IMAGE-GUIDED ROBOTIC SURGICAL INTERVENTIONS

      
Application Number US2024032919
Publication Number 2024/254384
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-06-07
Publication Date 2024-12-12
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Fischer, Gregory
  • Nycz, Christopher
  • Gandomi, Katie
  • Carvalho, Paulo
  • Zhao, Zhanyue

Abstract

The present invention comprises unique piezo elements which can be configured an controlled to provide motion in any direction. Included are rotor motors capable of being combined around one or more concentric tubes or shafts wherein the motors allow control over each individual tube or shaft. These motors may be used in the manufacture of end effectors for robots. Embodiments include an active surgical drape incorporating means for attaching end effectors and passing through electrical signals, fluids, and mechanical parts. All of the foregoing can function inside an actively scanning MRI.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H02N 2/00 - Electric machines in general using piezoelectric effect, electrostriction or magnetostriction
  • H02N 2/10 - Electric machines in general using piezoelectric effect, electrostriction or magnetostriction producing rotary motion, e.g. rotary motors

52.

HEAVY METAL TOXICITY REMEDIATION

      
Application Number 18524554
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-11-30
First Publication Date 2024-12-05
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Farny, Natalie G.
  • Reyes, Solimar Ramis De Ayreflor
  • Anwar, Afreen

Abstract

An aptamer having an affinity for toxic metals such as lead is introduced by a biocompatible delivery mechanism such as a DNA or RNA strand to which the aptamer is attached. The delivery mechanism delivers the aptamer, either as a direct nucleic acid sequence or expressed in a cell as a probiotic. When delivered as a prophylactic to the gastrointestinal tract (orally) as an aptamer or expressed within a probiotic cell, this would prevent absorption of metals and would thus reduce or eliminate the need for chelation therapy and thereby reduce disease burden. When used therapeutically, it could be ingested, or injected intravenously. Once bound, the toxic metals are expelled through normal gastrointestinal or urinary processes.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C12N 15/115 - Aptamers, i.e. nucleic acids binding a target molecule specifically and with high affinity without hybridising therewith
  • A61K 35/741 - Probiotics
  • A61K 47/00 - Medicinal preparations characterised by the non-active ingredients used, e.g. carriers or inert additivesTargeting or modifying agents chemically bound to the active ingredient
  • A61P 39/04 - Chelating agents

53.

ALGAL CO-CULTURE SYSTEM

      
Application Number 18677780
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-05-29
First Publication Date 2024-12-05
Owner
  • The Trustees of Boston College (USA)
  • Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Thyden, Richard
  • Gaudette, Glenn R.
  • Dominko, Tanja
  • Perreault, Luke R.

Abstract

Mammalian cell production systems are disclosed herein wherein a living mammalian cell culture including a mammalian growth medium operative is co-cultured with a living algae cell culture including an algae growth medium operative to feed nutrients and carbon dioxide to a plurality of algae cells and to transport an algae waste from the plurality of algae cells. The living algae cell culture produces an algae waste with one or more nutrients and oxygen operative to feed the mammalian cell culture, while the living mammalian cell culture produces a mammalian waste with one or more nutrients and carbon dioxide operative to feed the algae cell culture. The systems are capable of a continuous operation at normal mammalian temperature and pH, thereby removing a need to cool down the algae growth medium and/or heat up the algae growth medium for a treatment of algae or for a replenishment of algae.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C12M 1/00 - Apparatus for enzymology or microbiology
  • C12M 1/12 - Apparatus for enzymology or microbiology with sterilisation, filtration, or dialysis means
  • C12M 1/34 - Measuring or testing with condition measuring or sensing means, e.g. colony counters

54.

WIDE-FIELD PHOTOACOUSTIC (PA) IMAGING SYSTEM

      
Application Number 18674020
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-05-24
First Publication Date 2024-11-28
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Zhang, Haichong
  • Gao, Shang
  • Ma, Xihan

Abstract

A photoacoustic (PA) sensor device has a localization feature that defines a position of the sensor or scan information with a coordinate frame defining relative positions a scanned specimen and sensor information of other imaging planes of the scanned specimen. The coordinate frame is defined by positional information from localization markers at a known offset from the sensor, or from position signals from a robotic actuator driving the sensor. A processor coalesces the sensor information and positional information to reconstruct a 3-dimensional rendered structure by stitching together the sensor information to form a continuous rendering. Stitching may include adjacent imaging planes at an angular offset due to a varied pose of the sensor, and/or adjacent images over a lateral area too large for a single scan or imaging plane to capture.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
  • A61B 34/10 - Computer-aided planning, simulation or modelling of surgical operations
  • A61B 34/20 - Surgical navigation systemsDevices for tracking or guiding surgical instruments, e.g. for frameless stereotaxis
  • A61B 34/30 - Surgical robots
  • A61B 90/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups , e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges
  • A61M 25/01 - Introducing, guiding, advancing, emplacing or holding catheters

55.

WIDE-FIELD PHOTOACOUSTIC (PA) IMAGING SYSTEM

      
Application Number US2024031009
Publication Number 2024/243517
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-05-24
Publication Date 2024-11-28
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Zhang, Haichong
  • Gao, Shang
  • Ma, Xihan

Abstract

A photoacoustic (PA) sensor device has a localization feature that defines a position of the sensor or scan information with a coordinate frame defining relative positions a scanned specimen and sensor information of other imaging planes of the scanned specimen. The coordinate frame is defined by positional information from localization markers at a known offset from the sensor, or from position signals from a robotic actuator driving the sensor. A processor coalesces the sensor information and positional information to reconstruct a 3-dimensional rendered structure by stitching together the sensor information to form a continuous rendering. Stitching may include adjacent imaging planes at an angular offset due to a varied pose of the sensor, and/or adjacent images over a lateral area too large for a single scan or imaging plane to capture.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
  • A61B 90/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups , e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges
  • A61B 34/20 - Surgical navigation systemsDevices for tracking or guiding surgical instruments, e.g. for frameless stereotaxis
  • A61B 34/30 - Surgical robots

56.

SPECTROSCOPIC PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING PROBE

      
Application Number US2024030027
Publication Number 2024/238961
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-05-17
Publication Date 2024-11-21
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Zhang, Haichong
  • Gao, Shang

Abstract

A photoacoustic (PA) sensor employs a linear deployment of an illumination source and a corresponding ultrasonic receiver for defining an imaging plane for rendering a PA image of a surgical or diagnostic region. A pair of illumination sources emanates from cladding removal of respective optical fibers, and irradiates in alignment with a side firing ultrasonic (US) array for receiving the induced PA signals. The US array extends longitudinally and parallel to the illumination sources, and an overlap of the respective irradiation regions extends from the illumination sources lies within a sensing region of the US array for defining an imaging plane captured by the US sensor for rendering on a visual device, often in conjunction with an ablation antenna or diagnostic probe for providing concurrent imaging during a surgical procedure.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
  • A61B 8/00 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
  • A61B 90/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups , e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges
  • A61B 18/00 - Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body

57.

AMBIENT TEMPERATURE LIQUID METAL AIR FLOW BATTERY

      
Application Number 18654330
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-05-03
First Publication Date 2024-11-07
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Teixeira, Andrew R.
  • Datta, Ravindra
  • Rao, Pratap
  • Athair, Ari
  • Armstrong, Cameron
  • Shahabuddin, Muntasir

Abstract

A low temperature, liquid metal approach provides a metal-air battery at room temperature or slightly above for high current density, using ambient oxygen as an electrode without the need for high heat for an opposed metal electrode. A metal-air battery employs a low melting point metal such as gallium for an all-fluid battery having a flowing aqueous electrolyte for maintaining a large volume of electrical storage capacity separate form a relatively small reactor or cell for powering an electrical load. Reversibility of the forward discharge (load powering) reaction provides a recharging capability well suited for grid storage to moderate supply and demand variations. The result is an ultra-high density, rechargeable, safe, grid-scale electricity storage technology as an alternative to lithium-ion and solvent-based flow batteries.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/90 - Selection of catalytic material
  • H01M 4/86 - Inert electrodes with catalytic activity, e.g. for fuel cells
  • H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
  • H01M 50/497 - Ionic conductivity

58.

AMBIENT TEMPERATURE LIQUID METAL AIR FLOW BATTERY

      
Application Number US2024027640
Publication Number 2024/229338
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-05-03
Publication Date 2024-11-07
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Teixeira, Andrew R.
  • Datta, Ravindra
  • Rao, Pratap
  • Athair, Ari
  • Armstrong, Cameron
  • Shahabuddin, Muntasir

Abstract

A low temperature, liquid metal approach provides a metal-air battery at room temperature or slightly above for high current density, using ambient oxygen as an electrode without the need for high heat for an opposed metal electrode. A metal-air battery employs a low melting point metal such as gallium for an all-fluid battery having a flowing aqueous electrolyte for maintaining a large volume of electrical storage capacity separate form a relatively small reactor or cell for powering an electrical load. Reversibility of the forward discharge (load powering) reaction provides a recharging capability well suited for grid storage to moderate supply and demand variations. The result is an ultra-high density, rechargeable, safe, grid-scale electricity storage technology as an alternative to lithium-ion and solvent-based flow batteries.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 12/08 - Hybrid cellsManufacture thereof composed of a half-cell of a fuel-cell type and a half-cell of the secondary-cell type

59.

OPACITY TESTING THROUGH MEASURED ILLUMINANCE

      
Application Number 18640521
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-04-19
First Publication Date 2024-10-24
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Woodland, Kathryn
  • Gass, Madison
  • Nearing, Isabel
  • Jolin, Grace
  • Isiksacan, Ziya
  • Bonmarin, Mathias
  • Ambady, Sakthikumar
  • Usta, O. Berk
  • Sabuncu, Ahmet C.

Abstract

A storage and monitoring device for red blood samples in storage for donation (blood bank) and research. Stored blood can be susceptible to degradation, most often from a phenomenon known as ice nucleation. Accurate detection and identification of relevant factors causing ice nucleation can determine healthy samples of stored blood, and identify storage factors that promote storage longevity. A photodetection approach directs an illumination source and photometer on opposed sides of a blood containing vessel for measuring an illuminance affected by hemoglobin released from ruptured cells. Hemoglobin released from ruptured cells reduces light passage though the sample to indicate unusable samples. An accelerometer and temperature sensor measure the physical and temperate factors correlating with the detected cell degradation to determine storage criteria for extending blood longevity.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01N 33/72 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urineTesting involving biospecific ligand binding methodsImmunological testing involving blood pigments, e.g. hemoglobin, bilirubin
  • G01N 21/78 - Systems in which material is subjected to a chemical reaction, the progress or the result of the reaction being investigated by observing the effect on a chemical indicator producing a change of colour

60.

WATER TOLERANT ENZYMATIC STRUCTURAL MATERIAL

      
Application Number US2024025205
Publication Number 2024/220679
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-04-18
Publication Date 2024-10-24
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Rahbar, Nima
  • Shuai, Shuai
  • Scarlata, Suzanne, F.

Abstract

A carbon-negative Engineering Structural Material (ESM) has a compressive strength approaching that of concrete and relies on a carbon-absorbing enzyme for crystalline formations formed cooperatively with a porous structure to achieve load-bearing properties. A tough scaffold forms through capillary suspension, a technique that utilizes capillary forces to concentrate particles in a liquid matrix. Carbonic anhydrase, a zinc-containing enzyme extracted from bovine erythrocytes, is harnessed to grow mineral materials, and the capillary suspension is used to create a construction material, including sand and a polymer. This combination enables the incorporation of precipitated calcium minerals into the structure, resulting in the development of water-resistant and load-bearing construction materials.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C04B 40/06 - Inhibiting the setting, e.g. mortars of the deferred action type containing water in breakable containers
  • C04B 24/00 - Use of organic materials as active ingredients for mortars, concrete or artificial stone, e.g. plasticisers
  • C04B 24/38 - Polysaccharides or derivatives thereof
  • C12N 9/88 - Lyases (4.)
  • C04B 103/00 - Function or property of the active ingredients

61.

PACKED BED REACTOR

      
Application Number US2024025209
Publication Number 2024/220683
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-04-18
Publication Date 2024-10-24
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Teixeira, Andrew R.
  • Lopez, Esai

Abstract

A packed bed photochemical reactor ensures a consistent and effective irradiation of light to a reactant volume passed through a reactor. The reactor arranges miniaturized illumination elements such as LEDs in a packed bed arrangement with predetermined gaps or passages between. Fluid in communication with the packed bed flows between these gaps, ensuring a minimum distance to an irradiation source defined by the LEDs. Each LED is wirelessly powered from an inductive field through the reactor from an adjacent coil or electrical source. The inductive field wirelessly powers each of the illumination elements to ensure that the reactant in the passing fluid flow receives a consistent quantity of irradiation energy at the wavelength prescribed by the LED. In this manner, beneficial treatment rates allowing large volumes of reactant can be ensured based on the flow rate through the reactor.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B01J 19/12 - Processes employing the direct application of electric or wave energy, or particle radiationApparatus therefor employing electromagnetic waves
  • B01J 8/42 - Chemical or physical processes in general, conducted in the presence of fluids and solid particlesApparatus for such processes with fluidised particles according to "fluidised-bed" technique with fluidised bed subjected to electric current or to radiations
  • B01J 35/39 - Photocatalytic properties

62.

WATER TOLERANT ENZYMATIC STRUCTURAL MATERIAL

      
Application Number 18639498
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-04-18
First Publication Date 2024-10-24
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Rahbar, Nima
  • Wang, Shuai
  • Scarlata, Suzanne

Abstract

A carbon-negative Engineering Structural Material (ESM) has a compressive strength approaching that of concrete and relies on a carbon-absorbing enzyme for crystalline formations formed cooperatively with a porous structure to achieve load-bearing properties. A tough scaffold forms through capillary suspension, a technique that utilizes capillary forces to concentrate particles in a liquid matrix. Carbonic anhydrase, a zinc-containing enzyme extracted from bovine erythrocytes, is harnessed to grow mineral materials, and the capillary suspension is used to create a construction material, including sand and a polymer. This combination enables the incorporation of precipitated calcium minerals into the structure, resulting in the development of water-resistant and load-bearing construction materials.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C04B 35/52 - Shaped ceramic products characterised by their compositionCeramic compositionsProcessing powders of inorganic compounds preparatory to the manufacturing of ceramic products based on non-oxides based on carbon, e.g. graphite
  • B28B 11/24 - Apparatus or processes for treating or working the shaped articles for curing, setting or hardening
  • C04B 35/626 - Preparing or treating the powders individually or as batches
  • C04B 35/64 - Burning or sintering processes
  • C12P 3/00 - Preparation of elements or inorganic compounds except carbon dioxide

63.

OPACITY TESTING THROUGH MEASURED ILLUMINANCE

      
Application Number US2024025398
Publication Number 2024/220801
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-04-19
Publication Date 2024-10-24
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Woodland, Kathryn
  • Gass, Madison
  • Nearing, Isabel
  • Jolin, Grace
  • Isiksacan, Ziya
  • Bonmarin, Mathias
  • Ambady, Sakthikumar
  • Usta, O. Berk
  • Sabuncu, Ahmet C.

Abstract

A storage and monitoring device for red blood samples in storage for donation (blood bank) and research. Stored blood can be susceptible to degradation, most often from a phenomenon known as ice nucleation. Accurate detection and identification of relevant factors causing ice nucleation can determine healthy samples of stored blood, and identify storage factors that promote storage longevity. A photodetection approach directs an illumination source and photometer on opposed sides of a blood containing vessel for measuring an illuminance affected by hemoglobin released from ruptured cells. Hemoglobin released from ruptured cells reduces light passage though the sample to indicate unusable samples. An accelerometer and temperature sensor measure the physical and temperate factors correlating with the detected cell degradation to determine storage criteria for extending blood longevity.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01N 21/84 - Systems specially adapted for particular applications
  • G01N 21/59 - Transmissivity
  • G01N 15/075 - Investigating concentration of particle suspensions by optical means
  • G01N 33/49 - Physical analysis of biological material of liquid biological material blood
  • G01J 1/02 - Photometry, e.g. photographic exposure meter Details

64.

GRAPHENE COATED COMPONENTS FOR SUPERLUBRICITY

      
Application Number US2024024283
Publication Number 2024/216039
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-04-12
Publication Date 2024-10-17
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Asumadu, Tabiri K.
  • Vandadi, Mobin
  • Mensah-Darkwa, Kwadwo
  • Gikunoo, Emmanuel
  • Kwofie, Samuel
  • Klenam, Desmond E.P.
  • Rahbar, Nima
  • Soboyejo, Winston O.

Abstract

A carbon coating such as graphene formed on an article or component forms a reduced friction surface on the component. The graphene forms a superlubricity coating for mitigating friction against engaged, moving surfaces. A metallic component receives a graphene coating resulting from a high temperature biowaste treatment (HTBT) by surrounding the metallic component with a granular biowaste medium defining a carbon source, and heating the metallic component in the biowaste medium for diffusing carbon from the biowaste medium to aggregate on a surface of the component, thereby forming a graphene coating.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B05D 5/08 - Processes for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces to obtain special surface effects, finishes or structures to obtain an anti-friction or anti-adhesive surface
  • C23C 16/40 - Oxides
  • C23C 16/26 - Deposition of carbon only
  • C10M 103/02 - CarbonGraphite
  • C10M 103/04 - MetalsAlloys
  • C10M 177/00 - Special methods of preparation of lubricating compositionsChemical modification by after-treatment of components or of the whole of a lubricating composition, not covered by other classes
  • B82Y 30/00 - Nanotechnology for materials or surface science, e.g. nanocomposites
  • C10N 30/06 - OilinessFilm-strengthAnti-wearResistance to extreme pressure
  • C10N 50/08 - Form in which the lubricant is applied to the material being lubricated solid

65.

MICROFLUIDIC INDUCTION OF RESEARCH BASED NEURAL INJURY

      
Application Number US2024022182
Publication Number 2024/206784
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-03-29
Publication Date 2024-10-03
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • White, Hamilton A.
  • Albrecht, Dirk R.

Abstract

A microfluidic device for evaluation of test subjects for induced neural injury performs testing of multiple test subjects based on uniform and repeatable test stimuli for evaluating neural response for research including traumatic brain injury. A microfluidic device contains multiple test subjects and delivers a consistent, measured test stimuli simulating TBI to each of the test subjects simultaneously. The result is a system to assess neural function, behavior, and neural structure of small animals responsive to sonication-induced traumatic brain injury, to investigate risk and potential recovery. The microfluidic device disposes test subjects at a uniform distance from an injury inducing surface that emits sonication energy to simulate TBI. The uniform distance ensures that each test subject receives the same, controlled injury stimuli, and the test subjects may be evaluated with an attached microscope or video input, or may be extracted from the microfluidic device for further evaluation.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01N 33/50 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urineTesting involving biospecific ligand binding methodsImmunological testing
  • G01N 33/483 - Physical analysis of biological material

66.

SYSTEM FOR DETECTING HEALTH EXPERIENCE FROM EYE MOVEMENT

      
Application Number 18584731
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-02-22
First Publication Date 2024-10-03
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Djamasbi, Soussan
  • Nia, Javad Norouzi
  • Alrefaei, Doaa
  • Strong, Diane
  • Paffenroth, Randy

Abstract

A health experience detection system comprises an eye-tracking device and a health experience detection device disposed in electrical communication with the eye-tracking device. The health experience detection device comprises a controller having a memory and a processor. The controller is configured to: receive eye-movement data from the eye-tracking device, the eye-movement data associated with eye-movement of a user and comprising at least one of saccade event data and fixation event data, apply the eye-movement data to a health experience identification engine to generate a health experience identifier associated with the user, and output a notification regarding the health experience identifier of the user as associated with the eye-movement data.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 5/16 - Devices for psychotechnicsTesting reaction times
  • A61B 3/113 - Objective types, i.e. instruments for examining the eyes independent of the patients perceptions or reactions for determining or recording eye movement
  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons

67.

MICROFLUIDIC INDUCTION OF RESEARCH BASED NEURAL INJURY

      
Application Number 18621550
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-03-29
First Publication Date 2024-10-03
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • White, Hamilton A.
  • Albrecht, Dirk R.

Abstract

A microfluidic device for evaluation of test subjects for induced neural injury performs testing of multiple test subjects based on uniform and repeatable test stimuli for evaluating neural response for research including traumatic brain injury. A microfluidic device contains multiple test subjects and delivers a consistent, measured test stimuli simulating TBI to each of the test subjects simultaneously. The result is a system to assess neural function, behavior, and neural structure of small animals responsive to sonication-induced traumatic brain injury, to investigate risk and potential recovery. The microfluidic device disposes test subjects at a uniform distance from an injury inducing surface that emits sonication energy to simulate TBI. The uniform distance ensures that each test subject receives the same, controlled injury stimuli, and the test subjects may be evaluated with an attached microscope or video input, or may be extracted from the microfluidic device for further evaluation.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B01L 3/00 - Containers or dishes for laboratory use, e.g. laboratory glasswareDroppers

68.

Clutch system for flexible endoscopes

      
Application Number 18732975
Grant Number 12369781
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-06-04
First Publication Date 2024-10-03
Grant Date 2025-07-29
Owner
  • BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC. (USA)
  • WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Nycz, Christopher J.
  • Albrecht, Elizabeth M.
  • Chrobak, Megan
  • Ghazi, Kianoosh
  • Fischer, Gregory Scott
  • Clark, Bryan Allen

Abstract

An endoscopic system may include an endoscope including a handle and an elongate shaft extending distally therefrom. The handle may include a non-motorized and non-ratcheting actuation mechanism configured to articulate a distal tip portion of the elongate shaft. The distal tip portion may be articulatable in response to a manually applied force exerted upon the actuation mechanism. Removal of the manually applied force may lock the distal tip portion in its then-current configuration. The non-motorized and non-ratcheting actuation mechanism may include a clutch mechanism actuatable in response to an electrical signal generated in response to sensing a user-applied force to the actuating mechanism by a strain gauge.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor
  • A61B 1/005 - Flexible endoscopes

69.

Systems and Processes for Noninvasive Blood Pressure Estimation

      
Application Number 18605287
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-03-14
First Publication Date 2024-09-19
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Kasbekar, Rajesh S.
  • Clancy, Edward A.

Abstract

This disclosure relates to systems and processes for estimating blood pressure. Systems described herein comprise at least one sensor for measuring at least one waveform related to blood pressure from a patient; at least one processor; and at least one computer-readable storage medium having encoded thereon executable instructions to carry out a method comprising: receiving, from the at least one sensor, the at least one waveform and determining one or more features comprising at least one or more temporal features and one or more morphology features; and analyzing the one or more features using one or more trained models to determine one or more blood pressure (BP) value associated with the patient; and outputting the one or more BP value determined for the patient based on the received one or more features. The system allows for continuous and noninvasive calculations of a blood pressure to the patient or other users.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
  • A61B 5/021 - Measuring pressure in heart or blood vessels
  • A61B 5/352 - Detecting R peaks, e.g. for synchronising diagnostic apparatusEstimating R-R interval
  • G16H 10/60 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of patient-related medical or healthcare data for patient-specific data, e.g. for electronic patient records
  • G16H 50/70 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data miningICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for mining of medical data, e.g. analysing previous cases of other patients

70.

SYSTEMS AND PROCESSES FOR NONINVASIVE BLOOD PRESSURE ESTIMATION

      
Application Number US2024019977
Publication Number 2024/192266
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-03-14
Publication Date 2024-09-19
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Kasbekar, Rajesh, S.
  • Clancy, Edward, A.

Abstract

This disclosure relates to systems and processes for estimating blood pressure. Systems described herein comprise at least one sensor for measuring at least one waveform related to blood pressure from a patient; at least one processor; and at least one computer-readable storage medium having encoded thereon executable instructions that carry out a method comprising: receiving, from the at least one sensor, the at least one waveform and determining one or more features comprising at least one or more temporal features and one or more morphology features; and analyzing the one or more features using one or more trained models to determine one or more blood pressure (BP) value associated with the patient; and outputting the one or more BP value determined for the patient based on the received one or more features. The system allows for continuous and noninvasive calculations of a blood pressure to the patient or other users.

IPC Classes  ?

71.

SPECTROSCOPIC PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING PROBE

      
Application Number 18667740
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-05-17
First Publication Date 2024-09-12
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Zhang, Haichong
  • Gao, Shang

Abstract

A photoacoustic (PA) sensor employs a linear deployment of an illumination source and a corresponding ultrasonic receiver for defining an imaging plane for rendering a PA image of a surgical or diagnostic region. A pair of illumination sources emanates from cladding removal of respective optical fibers, and irradiates in alignment with a side firing ultrasonic (US) array for receiving the induced PA signals. The US array extends longitudinally and parallel to the illumination sources, and an overlap of the respective irradiation regions extends from the illumination sources lies within a sensing region of the US array for defining an imaging plane captured by the US sensor for rendering on a visual device, often in conjunction with an ablation antenna or diagnostic probe for providing concurrent imaging during a surgical procedure.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 8/00 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
  • A61B 8/12 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves in body cavities or body tracts, e.g. by using catheters
  • A61B 17/00 - Surgical instruments, devices or methods
  • A61B 18/14 - Probes or electrodes therefor
  • A61B 90/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups , e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges

72.

CONCUSSION DETECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD OF OPERATION

      
Application Number US2024018861
Publication Number 2024/186994
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-03-07
Publication Date 2024-09-12
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Ji, Songbai
  • Wu, Shaoju

Abstract

A concussion detection system comprises a kinematic detection device configured to be carried by a head of a user and a concussion detection device disposed in electrical communication with the kinematic detection device. The concussion detection device comprises a controller configured to: receive kinematic data from the kinematic detection device, the kinematic data associated with a head impact of the user, apply the kinematic data to a strain prediction engine to generate a strain identifier associated with the head impact and a concussion risk assessment associated with the strain identifier, and output the concussion risk assessment based upon the strain identifier and configured to identify a concussion risk associated with the head impact. The concussion detection device can assess concussion risk in the user for an individual impact, or based on a history of multiple head impacts, and can further take into account head or brain size differences.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 5/11 - Measuring movement of the entire body or parts thereof, e.g. head or hand tremor or mobility of a limb

73.

DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION (DBS) METHOD AND DEVICE

      
Application Number US2024016469
Publication Number 2024/177970
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-02-20
Publication Date 2024-08-29
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Makaroff, Sergey N.
  • Rachh, Manas
  • Greengard, Leslie
  • Rad, Laleh Golestani

Abstract

A method for directing an electrostimulation therapy includes receiving a scan image of a treatment region and determining a purported location of a stimulation probe inserted within the scan image. A modeling application or computational engine determines a position of a target region within the scan image relative to the purported location, and computes a strength of the electrical energy at the position based on a Fast Multipole Method (FMM) using LU (Lower/Upper) factorization, and concludes an efficacy resulting from activation of an electrode delivering the electrical energy resulting from the stimulation probe at the purported location.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61N 1/05 - Electrodes for implantation or insertion into the body, e.g. heart electrode
  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
  • A61N 1/08 - Arrangements or circuits for monitoring, protecting, controlling or indicating
  • A61N 1/20 - Applying electric currents by contact electrodes continuous direct currents
  • A61B 5/055 - Detecting, measuring or recording for diagnosis by means of electric currents or magnetic fieldsMeasuring using microwaves or radio waves involving electronic [EMR] or nuclear [NMR] magnetic resonance, e.g. magnetic resonance imaging

74.

SYSTEM FOR DETECTING HEALTH EXPERIENCE FROM EYE MOVEMENT

      
Application Number US2024016906
Publication Number 2024/178229
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-02-22
Publication Date 2024-08-29
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Djamasbi, Soussan
  • Nia, Javad, Norouzi
  • Alrefaei, Doaa
  • Strong, Diane
  • Paffenroth, Randy

Abstract

A health experience detection system comprises an eye-tracking device and a health experience detection device disposed in electrical communication with the eye-tracking device. The health experience detection device comprises a controller having a memory and a processor. The controller is configured to: receive eye-movement data from the eye-tracking device, the eye-movement data associated with eye-movement of a user and comprising at least one of saccade event data and fixation event data, apply the eye-movement data to a health experience identification engine to generate a health experience identifier associated with the user, and output a notification regarding the health experience identifier of the user as associated with the eye-movement data.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 3/113 - Objective types, i.e. instruments for examining the eyes independent of the patients perceptions or reactions for determining or recording eye movement
  • A61B 5/16 - Devices for psychotechnicsTesting reaction times
  • G16H 50/20 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data miningICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for computer-aided diagnosis, e.g. based on medical expert systems

75.

ELECTRODE STRUCTURE BY DRY MANUFACTURING

      
Application Number US2024015396
Publication Number 2024/173252
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-02-12
Publication Date 2024-08-22
Owner
  • WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
  • TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY (USA)
Inventor
  • Wang, Yan
  • Liu, Yangtao
  • Pan, Heng
  • Gong, Xiangtao

Abstract

An example electrode fabricated using a solvent-free process is provided. The electrode includes a substrate including a dry mixture of active materials, binder, and conductive additives electrostatically sprayed onto the substrate, thermally activated, and bonded to the substrate. The binder and the conductive additives form conductive binder agglomeration clusters. The binder and the conductive additives uniformly cover a surface of the active materials. The binder is uniformly distributed in a thickness direction of the electrode. The electrode includes pores between the active materials that are both microsize pores and submicron- size pores. The micro-size pores are open pores that allow electrolyte to diffuse.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/13 - Electrodes for accumulators with non-aqueous electrolyte, e.g. for lithium-accumulatorsProcesses of manufacture thereof
  • H01M 4/62 - Selection of inactive substances as ingredients for active masses, e.g. binders, fillers
  • H01M 4/04 - Processes of manufacture in general

76.

DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION (DBS) METHOD AND DEVICE

      
Application Number 18581910
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-02-20
First Publication Date 2024-08-22
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Makaroff, Sergey N.
  • Rachh, Manas
  • Greengard, Leslie
  • Rad, Laleh Golestani

Abstract

A method for directing an electrostimulation therapy includes receiving a scan image of a treatment region and determining a purported location of a stimulation probe inserted within the scan image. A modeling application or computational engine determines a position of a target region within the scan image relative to the purported location, and computes a strength of the electrical energy at the position based on a Fast Multipole Method (FMM) using LU (Lower/Upper) factorization, and concludes an efficacy resulting from activation of an electrode delivering the electrical energy resulting from the stimulation probe at the purported location.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61N 1/36 - Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents for stimulation, e.g. heart pace-makers
  • A61N 1/05 - Electrodes for implantation or insertion into the body, e.g. heart electrode
  • G16H 20/40 - ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans, e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance relating to mechanical, radiation or invasive therapies, e.g. surgery, laser therapy, dialysis or acupuncture

77.

IRON ANODE BATTERY

      
Application Number US2024015693
Publication Number 2024/173471
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-02-14
Publication Date 2024-08-22
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Teng, Xiaowei
  • Jagadeesan, Sathya N.

Abstract

2344, which can tend to cause "dead" regions in the battery. A suitable battery chemistry includes iron-air and other iron metal batteries operable with an aqueous electrolyte and employing oxygen and water cathodes. The iron anode battery employs inexpensive available iron, rather than more expensive and/or volatile materials used in Li-ion and lead-acid batteries. An aqueous electrolyte formed from sodium hydroxide and silicates, optionally with potassium or chloride salts, forms an anode reaction with nanostructured iron oxide particles in a safe and stable battery chemistry which is readily scalable for grid storage.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 12/08 - Hybrid cellsManufacture thereof composed of a half-cell of a fuel-cell type and a half-cell of the secondary-cell type
  • H01M 4/134 - Electrodes based on metals, Si or alloys
  • H01M 4/96 - Carbon-based electrodes
  • H01M 10/056 - Accumulators with non-aqueous electrolyte characterised by the materials used as electrolytes, e.g. mixed inorganic/organic electrolytes

78.

IRON ANODE BATTERY

      
Application Number 18441249
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-02-14
First Publication Date 2024-08-15
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Teng, Xiaowei
  • Jagadeesan, Sathya N.

Abstract

An iron anode employs an electrolyte for generating an anode reaction to convert between Iron II and Iron III ions, denoted by Fe(OH)2 and FeOOH, rather than tending towards formation of highly stable Fe3O4, which can tend to cause “dead” regions in the battery. A suitable battery chemistry includes iron-air and other iron metal batteries operable with an aqueous electrolyte and employing oxygen and water cathodes. The iron anode battery employs inexpensive available iron, rather than more expensive and/or volatile materials used in Li-ion and lead-acid batteries. An aqueous electrolyte formed from sodium hydroxide and silicates, optionally with potassium or chloride salts, forms an anode reaction with nanostructured iron oxide particles in a safe and stable battery chemistry which is readily scalable for grid storage.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 4/52 - Selection of substances as active materials, active masses, active liquids of inorganic oxides or hydroxides of nickel, cobalt or iron
  • H01M 4/02 - Electrodes composed of, or comprising, active material
  • H01M 10/26 - Selection of materials as electrolytes
  • H01M 12/08 - Hybrid cellsManufacture thereof composed of a half-cell of a fuel-cell type and a half-cell of the secondary-cell type

79.

GRAPHITE RECYCLING FROM LI-ION BATTERIES

      
Application Number US2024013546
Publication Number 2024/163472
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-01-30
Publication Date 2024-08-08
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Wang, Yan
  • Yao, Zeyi
  • Ma, Xiaotu

Abstract

A purification process for recycled graphite for use as anode material in Li-ion batteries includes a sequence of leaching and heat treatment followed by washing with deionized (DI) water and an acid wash. A graphite source results from a suitable process such as acid leaching of black mass from a batteiy recycling stream, where the leach removes a substantial portion of metal salts used for cathode materials. Impurities, most notably aluminum oxide and residual cathode materials, are often present in trace amounts in the graphite source. A sequence of heating (sintering) and pH adjusted washing further purifies the graphite into a modified, recycled graphite exceeding 99.5% purity for use in a recycled battery.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 10/54 - Reclaiming serviceable parts of waste accumulators
  • B09B 3/70 - Chemical treatment, e.g. pH adjustment or oxidation
  • B09B 3/35 - Shredding, crushing or cutting
  • B09B 3/40 - Destroying solid waste or transforming solid waste into something useful or harmless involving thermal treatment, e.g. evaporation
  • B09B 101/16 - Batteries

80.

GRAPHITE RECYCLING FROM LI-ION BATTERIES

      
Application Number 18427320
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-01-30
First Publication Date 2024-08-01
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Wang, Yan
  • Yao, Zeyi
  • Ma, Xiaotu

Abstract

A purification process for recycled graphite for use as anode material in Li-ion batteries includes a sequence of leaching and heat treatment followed by washing with deionized (DI) water and an acid wash. A graphite source results from a suitable process such as acid leaching of black mass from a battery recycling stream, where the leach removes a substantial portion of metal salts used for cathode materials. Impurities, most notably aluminum oxide and residual cathode materials, are often present in trace amounts in the graphite source. A sequence of heating (sintering) and pH adjusted washing further purifies the graphite into a modified, recycled graphite exceeding 99.5% purity for use in a recycled battery.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 10/54 - Reclaiming serviceable parts of waste accumulators
  • C01B 32/21 - After-treatment
  • C22B 1/16 - SinteringAgglomerating
  • C22B 7/00 - Working-up raw materials other than ores, e.g. scrap, to produce non-ferrous metals or compounds thereof
  • H01M 4/02 - Electrodes composed of, or comprising, active material
  • H01M 4/583 - Carbonaceous material, e.g. graphite-intercalation compounds or CFx

81.

GENOMIC SEQUENCES FOR YEAST PROBIOTICS

      
Application Number 18404140
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-01-04
First Publication Date 2024-07-11
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Rao, Reeta
  • Young, Eric M.
  • Kunyeit, Lohith
  • Anu-Appaiah, K. A.
  • Collins, Joseph H.

Abstract

A formulated composition for treating or preventing epithelial fungal infection and correcting dysbiosis in or on a subject provides an effective dose of yeast cells containing a plurality of genes encoding functions of tolerance to a high temperature, tolerance to high and low pH, adherence to cells of the subject, and biosynthesis of amino acid alcohols.

IPC Classes  ?

82.

GENOMIC SEQUENCES FOR YEAST PROBIOTICS

      
Application Number US2024010365
Publication Number 2024/148198
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-01-04
Publication Date 2024-07-11
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Rao, Reeta
  • Young, Eric M.
  • Kunyeit, Lohith
  • Anu-Appaiah, K. A.
  • Collins, Joseph H.

Abstract

A formulated composition for treating or preventing epithelial fungal infection and correcting dysbiosis in or on a subject provides an effective dose of yeast cells containing a plurality of genes encoding functions of tolerance to a high temperature, tolerance to high and low pH, adherence to cells of the subject, and biosynthesis of amino acid alcohols.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61K 36/06 - Fungi, e.g. yeasts
  • A61K 36/064 - Saccharomycetales, e.g. baker's yeast
  • A61P 31/10 - Antimycotics
  • A61P 43/00 - Drugs for specific purposes, not provided for in groups
  • A01N 63/22 - Bacillus
  • C12Q 1/02 - Measuring or testing processes involving enzymes, nucleic acids or microorganismsCompositions thereforProcesses of preparing such compositions involving viable microorganisms

83.

SURGICAL CUTTING APPARATUS

      
Application Number 18602698
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-03-12
First Publication Date 2024-07-04
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Kauffman, Jesse
  • Tarabein, Karim A.
  • Downey, Cameron W.
  • Law, Robert J.
  • Luong, Minh T.

Abstract

A surgical rongeur device has an interchangeable, locking tip at a cutting end for engageable replacement with a variety of cutting tips for facilitating sterilization and blade changes. A detachable linkage between a handle portion and an interchangeable cutting tip (tip) provides a strong connection for actuation by the handle end but allowing for tip replacement via slidable, lateral displacement of the tip. The tip includes a blade and footplate formed from an amorphous metal for longevity and strength advantages. A handle provides a lever to actuate the tip from slidable communication via the detachable linkage. An interlocking member extends longitudinally from the handle into an internal slot on the tip for locking the tip by preventing lateral movement out of alignment with the handle. The aligned tip is responsive to actuation from the handle via a rail for disposing the blade longitudinally against the footplate.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 17/16 - Instruments for performing osteoclasisDrills or chisels for bonesTrepans

84.

AUTO-THERMAL HYDROTHERMAL LIQUEFACTION OF WASTES

      
Application Number 18540345
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-12-14
First Publication Date 2024-07-04
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Timko, Michael
  • Maag, Alex R.
  • Belden, Elizabeth
  • Tompsett, Geoffrey A.
  • Teixeira, Andrew R.
  • Panahi, Aidin
  • Charlebois, Andrew
  • Kauffman, Skyler

Abstract

A waste stream of organic matter such as sewage, plant and plastic matter is received for recycling and treated with high temperature and pressure to generate useful organic products such as bio-oil and gas. Byproducts such as char and an aqueous phase including water can be selectively recycled or beingly discarded. An oxidant added to a reactor containing waste from the waste stream facilitates an autothermal reaction under the temperature and pressure applied to the reactor, boosting the temperature slightly from the reactions therein. The reactor generates useful hydrocarbons such as bio-oil resulting from disruption of organic bonds. A combination of oxidation and radical initiation results from the oxidant, and provides an increased yield of bio-oil while decreasing char when compared to temperature and pressure alone. A stoichiometric quantity of the oxidant limits complete conversion of carbon into carbon dioxide by limiting available oxygen and therefore favoring hydrocarbon formation.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C10G 69/06 - Treatment of hydrocarbon oils by at least one hydrotreatment process and at least one other conversion process plural serial stages only including at least one step of thermal cracking in the absence of hydrogen
  • C02F 11/06 - Treatment of sludgeDevices therefor by oxidation
  • C10B 53/02 - Destructive distillation, specially adapted for particular solid raw materials or solid raw materials in special form of cellulose-containing material
  • C10B 53/07 - Destructive distillation, specially adapted for particular solid raw materials or solid raw materials in special form of synthetic polymeric materials, e.g. tyres

85.

HOLLOW EXTRUSION NOZZLE

      
Application Number US2023035222
Publication Number 2024/136948
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-10-16
Publication Date 2024-06-27
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Wilke, Ethan, R.
  • Fichera, Loris
  • Pacheco, Nicholas, E.

Abstract

A nozzle apparatus for a 3D printer employs a center post or shape and extrudes a circumferential, tubular form having a central void. The nozzle includes a radial arrangement of prongs or supports around a center post, which provides space for molten print medium to flow in a 360° form around the center post. The nozzle extrudes a hollow tubular form around the post that can lay a tube shaped article on a perpendicular print bed, or can be used to deposit high resolution, hollow cylindrical segments for forming lightweight articles with less volume of print medium required due to the hollow extruded shape. A stream of air or gas may be emitted into the center of the extrusion for maintaining a tubular shape. Other suitable shapes may be employed by altering the contour of the center post and the bore.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B29C 64/209 - HeadsNozzles
  • B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
  • B29C 64/321 - Feeding
  • B29C 48/09 - Articles with cross-sections having partially or fully enclosed cavities, e.g. pipes or channels
  • B29C 48/14 - Extrusion moulding, i.e. expressing the moulding material through a die or nozzle which imparts the desired formApparatus therefor characterised by the particular extruding conditions, e.g. in a modified atmosphere or by using vibration
  • B29C 48/89 - Internal treatment, e.g. by applying an internal cooling fluid stream
  • B33Y 10/00 - Processes of additive manufacturing
  • B33Y 30/00 - Apparatus for additive manufacturingDetails thereof or accessories therefor
  • B33Y 40/00 - Auxiliary operations or equipment, e.g. for material handling
  • B29D 23/00 - Producing tubular articles

86.

ARTEMISIA ANTI-BACTERIAL COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS OF USE FOR INHIBITION OF CELLS OF MYCOBACTERIUM SPECIES

      
Application Number US2023085381
Publication Number 2024/137959
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-12-21
Publication Date 2024-06-27
Owner
  • WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
  • THE PENN STATE RESEARCH FOUNDATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Weathers, Pamela
  • Shell, Scarlet S
  • Kellogg, Joshua J.

Abstract

Artemisia annuaA. afra Mycobacterium tuberculosisMycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) strain mc2A. afra A. annuaA. annua A. afraA. afraA. afraA. afraA. afra resulted in isolation of a methoxylated flavone (compound 1), with considerable activity against Mtb strain mc26230.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61K 31/352 - Heterocyclic compounds having oxygen as the only ring hetero atom, e.g. fungichromin having six-membered rings with one oxygen as the only ring hetero atom condensed with carbocyclic rings, e.g. cannabinols, methantheline
  • A61K 36/282 - Artemisia, e.g. wormwood or sagebrush
  • A61P 31/04 - Antibacterial agents

87.

Artemisia anti-bacterial compositions and methods of use for inhibition of cells of Mycobacterium species

      
Application Number 18392419
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-12-21
First Publication Date 2024-06-27
Owner
  • Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
  • The Penn State Research Foundation (USA)
Inventor
  • Shell, Scarlet S.
  • Weathers, Pamela
  • Kellogg, Joshua J.

Abstract

Artemisia annua and A. afra dichloromethane extracts contain bactericidal activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) strain mc26230 under natural infection stress conditions: carbon source metabolism (glycerol, dextrose, and cholesterol) and hypoxia. Significant bactericidal activity against Mtb was observed regardless of carbon source. Extracts from A. afra showed the highest bactericidal activity against Mtb for tested carbon sources, and A. annua bactericidal activity was greatest against Mtb in minimal media with glycerol. A. annua and A. afra. extracts were bactericidal against Mtb under hypoxic conditions. Growth was halted and viability diminished several logs-fold under hypoxic conditions in the presence of each extract. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that A. afra exerts different effects on Mtb than artemisinin, indicative of phytochemicals in A. afra with unique modes of action. Biochemometric analysis of A. afra resulted in isolation of a methoxylated flavone (compound 1), with considerable activity against Mtb strain mc26230.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61K 31/352 - Heterocyclic compounds having oxygen as the only ring hetero atom, e.g. fungichromin having six-membered rings with one oxygen as the only ring hetero atom condensed with carbocyclic rings, e.g. cannabinols, methantheline
  • A61K 36/282 - Artemisia, e.g. wormwood or sagebrush
  • A61K 45/06 - Mixtures of active ingredients without chemical characterisation, e.g. antiphlogistics and cardiaca
  • A61K 49/00 - Preparations for testing in vivo
  • A61P 31/06 - Antibacterial agents for tuberculosis

88.

Hollow extrusion nozzle

      
Application Number 18380500
Grant Number 12017410
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-10-16
First Publication Date 2024-06-25
Grant Date 2024-06-25
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Wilke, Ethan R.
  • Fichera, Loris
  • Pacheco, Nicholas E.

Abstract

A nozzle apparatus for a 3D printer employs a center post or shape and extrudes a circumferential, tubular form having a central void. The nozzle includes a radial arrangement of prongs or supports around a center post, which provides space for molten print medium to flow in a 360° form around the center post. The nozzle extrudes a hollow tubular form around the post that can lay a tube shaped article on a perpendicular print bed, or can be used to deposit high resolution, hollow cylindrical segments for forming lightweight articles with less volume of print medium required due to the hollow extruded shape. A stream of air or gas may be emitted into the center of the extrusion for maintaining a tubular shape. Other suitable shapes may be employed by altering the contour of the center post and the bore.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B33Y 10/00 - Processes of additive manufacturing
  • B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
  • B29C 64/209 - HeadsNozzles
  • B33Y 30/00 - Apparatus for additive manufacturingDetails thereof or accessories therefor

89.

AUTO-THERMAL HYDROTHERMAL LIQUEFACTION OF WASTES

      
Application Number US2023084077
Publication Number 2024/130001
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-12-14
Publication Date 2024-06-20
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Timko, Michael
  • Magg, Alex R.
  • Belden, Elizabeth
  • Tompsett, Geoffrey A.
  • Teixeira, Andrew R.
  • Panahi, Aidin
  • Charlebois, Andrew
  • Kauffman, Skyler

Abstract

A waste stream of organic matter such as sewage, plant and plastic matter is received for recycling and treated with high temperature and pressure to generate useful organic products such as bio-oil and gas. Byproducts such as char and an aqueous phase including water can be selectively recycled or beingly discarded. An oxidant added to a reactor containing waste from the waste stream facilitates an autothermal reaction under the temperature and pressure applied to the reactor, boosting the temperature slightly from the reactions therein. The reactor generates useful hydrocarbons such as bio-oil resulting from disruption of organic bonds. A combination of oxidation and radical initiation results from the oxidant, and provides an increased yield of bio-oil while decreasing char when compared to temperature and pressure alone. A stoichiometric quantity of the oxidant limits complete conversion of carbon into carbon dioxide by limiting available oxygen and therefore favoring hydrocarbon formation.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B09B 3/40 - Destroying solid waste or transforming solid waste into something useful or harmless involving thermal treatment, e.g. evaporation
  • B09B 3/70 - Chemical treatment, e.g. pH adjustment or oxidation
  • B09B 3/80 - Destroying solid waste or transforming solid waste into something useful or harmless involving an extraction step
  • C10G 1/00 - Production of liquid hydrocarbon mixtures from oil shale, oil-sand, or non-melting solid carbonaceous or similar materials, e.g. wood, coal
  • C10G 1/10 - Production of liquid hydrocarbon mixtures from oil shale, oil-sand, or non-melting solid carbonaceous or similar materials, e.g. wood, coal from rubber or rubber waste
  • B09B 101/75 - Plastic waste

90.

Method and apparatus for recycling lithium-ion batteries

      
Application Number 18582718
Grant Number 12322769
Status In Force
Filing Date 2024-02-21
First Publication Date 2024-06-20
Grant Date 2025-06-03
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Wang, Yan
  • Apelian, Diran
  • Zou, Haiyang

Abstract

Cathode material from exhausted lithium ion batteries are dissolved in a solution for extracting the useful elements Co (cobalt), Ni (nickel), Al (Aluminum) and Mn (manganese) to produce active cathode materials for new batteries. The solution includes compounds of desirable materials such as cobalt, nickel, aluminum and manganese dissolved as compounds from the exhausted cathode material of spent cells. Depending on a desired proportion, or ratio, of the desired materials, raw materials are added to the solution to achieve the desired ratio of the commingled compounds for the recycled cathode material for new cells. The desired materials precipitate out of solution without extensive heating or separation of the desired materials into individual compounds or elements. The resulting active cathode material has the predetermined ratio for use in new cells, and avoids high heat typically required to separate the useful elements because the desired materials remain commingled in solution.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 10/54 - Reclaiming serviceable parts of waste accumulators
  • C22B 1/24 - BindingBriquetting
  • C22B 3/00 - Extraction of metal compounds from ores or concentrates by wet processes
  • C22B 7/00 - Working-up raw materials other than ores, e.g. scrap, to produce non-ferrous metals or compounds thereof
  • C22B 26/22 - Obtaining magnesium

91.

BIOMIMETIC LIPOSOMES AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING THE SAME

      
Application Number 18508058
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-11-13
First Publication Date 2024-06-13
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Bailey-Hytholt, Christina M.
  • Zimmer, Daniel

Abstract

This disclosure relates generally to biomimetic proteoliposomes, a method of making and a method of using the same. In particular, this disclosure provides proteoliposomes comprising one or more phospholipid carrier and one or more protein embedded in the one or more phospholipid carrier, wherein the one or more phospholipid carrier comprises a phospholipid composition with similar proportions of phospholipids as a naturally occurring cell type and a phospholipid concentration of about 1-50 mM; and wherein the one or more protein comprises a protein composition with similar proportions of proteins as the naturally occurring cell type.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01N 33/50 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urineTesting involving biospecific ligand binding methodsImmunological testing
  • B33Y 40/00 - Auxiliary operations or equipment, e.g. for material handling
  • B33Y 70/00 - Materials specially adapted for additive manufacturing
  • G01N 33/531 - Production of immunochemical test materials

92.

HEAVY METAL TOXICITY REMEDIATION

      
Application Number US2023081804
Publication Number 2024/118908
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-11-30
Publication Date 2024-06-06
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Farny, Natalie G.
  • Ramis De Ayreflor Reyes, Solimar
  • Anwar, Afreen

Abstract

An aptamer having an affinity for toxic metals such as lead is introduced by a biocompatible delivery mechanism such as a DNA or RNA strand to which the aptamer is attached. The delivery mechanism delivers the aptamer, either as a direct nucleic acid sequence or expressed in a cell as a probiotic. When delivered as a prophylactic to the gastrointestinal tract (orally) as an aptamer or expressed within a probiotic cell, this would prevent absorption of metals and would thus reduce or eliminate the need for chelation therapy and thereby reduce disease burden. When used therapeutically, it could be ingested, or injected intravenously. Once bound, the toxic metals are expelled through normal gastrointestinal or urinary processes.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61K 48/00 - Medicinal preparations containing genetic material which is inserted into cells of the living body to treat genetic diseasesGene therapy
  • A61K 31/7088 - Compounds having three or more nucleosides or nucleotides
  • A61P 39/04 - Chelating agents
  • A61P 39/02 - Antidotes
  • C12N 15/115 - Aptamers, i.e. nucleic acids binding a target molecule specifically and with high affinity without hybridising therewith

93.

BIOMIMETIC LIPOSOMES AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING THE SAME

      
Application Number US2023079541
Publication Number 2024/103068
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-11-13
Publication Date 2024-05-16
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Bailey-Hytholt, Christina, M.
  • Zimmer, Daniel

Abstract

This disclosure relates generally to biomimetic proteoliposomes, methods of making and methods of using the same. In particular, this disclosure provides proteoliposomes comprising one or more phospholipid carrier and one or more protein embedded in the one or more phospholipid carrier, wherein the one or more phospholipid carrier comprises a phospholipid composition with similar proportions of phospholipids as a naturally occurring cell type and a phospholipid concentration of about 1-50 mM; and wherein the one or more protein comprises a protein composition with similar proportions of proteins as the naturally occurring cell type.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61K 9/127 - Synthetic bilayered vehicles, e.g. liposomes or liposomes with cholesterol as the only non-phosphatidyl surfactant
  • C07H 21/00 - Compounds containing two or more mononucleotide units having separate phosphate or polyphosphate groups linked by saccharide radicals of nucleoside groups, e.g. nucleic acids
  • C08K 5/09 - Carboxylic acidsMetal salts thereofAnhydrides thereof
  • C12N 15/113 - Non-coding nucleic acids modulating the expression of genes, e.g. antisense oligonucleotides
  • G01N 33/92 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urineTesting involving biospecific ligand binding methodsImmunological testing involving lipids, e.g. cholesterol

94.

Method and Apparatus for Efficient Metal Distillation and Related Primary Production Process

      
Application Number 18376216
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-03
First Publication Date 2024-05-02
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Powell, Adam C.
  • Dussault, David
  • Earlam, Matthew
  • Tajima, Aaron
  • Raymes, Connor

Abstract

Method and apparatus are provided for efficient metal distillation, and for related primary product process. Vertically stacked and gravity-driven evaporators and condensers are employed to distill metals, such metals having different volatilities. A multiple-effect thermal system of magnesium and other volatile metals is used to efficiently distill and separate metals from multiple metal alloys.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C25C 3/04 - Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of magnesium
  • C22B 7/00 - Working-up raw materials other than ores, e.g. scrap, to produce non-ferrous metals or compounds thereof
  • C22B 9/02 - Refining by liquating, filtering, centrifuging, distilling or supersonic wave action
  • C22B 26/22 - Obtaining magnesium
  • C25C 3/34 - Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of metals not provided for in groups

95.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ROBOTIC SURGICAL INTERVENTION IN A MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGER

      
Application Number 18400038
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-12-29
First Publication Date 2024-04-25
Owner
  • Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
  • University of Massachusetts (USA)
Inventor
  • Fischer, Gregory S.
  • Cole, Gregory A.
  • Pilitsis, Julie G.

Abstract

A system and method for image guided assisted medical procedures using modular units, such that a controller, under the direction of a computer and imaging device, can be utilized to drive and track low cost, purpose specific manipulators. The system utilizes modular actuators, self tracking, and linkages. The systems can be optimized at a low cost for most effectively performing surgical procedures, while reusing the more costly components of the system, e.g. the control, driving, and tracking systems. The system and method may utilize MRI real time guidance during the above procedures.

IPC Classes  ?

96.

ROBOTIC ASSISTED IMAGING

      
Application Number 18381510
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-18
First Publication Date 2024-04-25
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Zhang, Haichong
  • Ma, Xihan
  • Rahaman, Ashiqur
  • Kuo, Wen-Yi

Abstract

An imaging self-positioning system includes a robotic actuator for manipulating an imaging tool or medical probe and a sensory component for maintaining a normal orientation above patient a treatment site. The imaging tool, typically an US probe, is grasped by an end-effector or similar actuator, and a sensory component engaged with the imaging tool senses an orientation of the tool relative to the treatment surface, and the robotic actuator disposes the imaging tool for maintaining a normal or other predetermined angular alignment with the treatment surface. The treatment surface is a patient epidermal region adjacent an imaged region for identifying anatomical features and surgical targets. A medical probe such as a biopsy needle may accompany the end-effector for movement consistent with the probe, either manually or robotically advanced towards the surgical target.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 34/20 - Surgical navigation systemsDevices for tracking or guiding surgical instruments, e.g. for frameless stereotaxis
  • A61B 8/00 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
  • A61B 10/02 - Instruments for taking cell samples or for biopsy
  • A61B 34/32 - Surgical robots operating autonomously
  • A61B 90/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups , e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges

97.

ROBOTIC ASSISTED IMAGING

      
Application Number US2023035427
Publication Number 2024/086234
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-10-18
Publication Date 2024-04-25
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Haichong, Zhang
  • Ma, Xihan
  • Rahaman, Ashiqur
  • Kuo, Wen-Yi

Abstract

An imaging self-positioning system includes a robotic actuator for manipulating an imaging tool or medical probe and a sensory component for maintaining a normal orientation above patient a treatment site. The imaging tool, typically an US probe, is grasped by an end-effector or similar actuator, and a sensory component engaged with the imaging tool senses an orientation of the tool relative to the treatment surface, and the robotic actuator disposes the imaging tool for maintaining a normal or other predetermined angular alignment with the treatment surface. The treatment surface is a patient epidermal region adjacent an imaged region for identifying anatomical features and surgical targets. A medical probe such as a biopsy needle may accompany the end-effector for movement consistent with the probe, either manually or robotically advanced towards the surgical target.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 8/00 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
  • A61B 90/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups , e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges

98.

AUTONOMOUS ROBOTIC CUTTING SYSTEM

      
Application Number 18377196
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-05
First Publication Date 2024-04-18
Owner
  • WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
  • EMR (USA HOLDINGS) INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Akl, James
  • Calli, Berk
  • Morton, Roger

Abstract

Autonomous oxy-gas cutting of a metal substrate or surface along a cutting path employs vision feedback from camera based images of a predetermined, marked cutting path. The method for metal cutting according to the predetermined path includes identifying the path on a substrate for cutting, and computing a set of points based on iterative intervals along the path. A controller disposes a cutting torch based on a tangent to the path at each point in the set of points. The controller iteratively advances the torch based on successive points in the set of points for a complete traversal of the path. Cutting torch control involves moving an oxy-gas cutting jet along the cutting path on a metal surface for an efficient and complete cut. While traversing the cutting path, the controller regulates the surface heat pool quality by moving the torch tip at an appropriate velocity.

IPC Classes  ?

99.

MAGNETICALLY ALIGNED POLYMERIC MICROFIBERS

      
Application Number 18377791
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-07
First Publication Date 2024-04-11
Owner Worcester Polytechnic Institute (USA)
Inventor
  • Coburn, Jeannine
  • Wojnowski, Melissa

Abstract

Magneto-responsive properties are traditionally imparted to scaffold systems via integration of iron oxide-based magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), yet poor understanding of long-term MNP toxicity presents a significant translational challenge. Given the demonstrated iron-binding capacity of silk fibroin (SF), passive chelation of ferric iron ions is explored herein as an alternative, MNP-free approach for magnetic functionalization of silk fibroin (SF)-based biomaterials. SF microfibers treated with aqueous ferric chloride (FeCl3) exhibit significantly increased iron content relative to the nascent protein.

IPC Classes  ?

100.

MAGNETICALLY ALIGNED POLYMERIC MICROFIBERS

      
Application Number US2023034709
Publication Number 2024/076771
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-10-07
Publication Date 2024-04-11
Owner WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (USA)
Inventor
  • Coburn, Jeannine
  • Wojnowski, Melissa

Abstract

33) exhibit significantly increased iron content relative to the nascent protein.

IPC Classes  ?

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