Radiation Triage Mask secures U.S. patent
June 22, 2010
Technology will help EMS first-responders quickly identify radiation exposure in patients
OSHAWA, ON. - The University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) recently achieved another milestone with the confirmation of its United States patent, which was issued earlier this month for Dr. Ed Waller's Radiation Triage Mask (RTM) invention.
The RTM has the ability to quickly identify and assist with treatment strategies for those who have been exposed to radioactive isotopes generated by dirty bombs. The main benefits of the RTM are its ease of use and quick screening capability. Currently only trained professionals can operate radiation detectors, which can slow down the detection process. The RTM's design is based on that of an oxygen mask and is a straightforward tool that will ensure accurate readings. The device is placed over the patient's nose and mouth and detects radiation from material present on the face, which is in direct proportion to the amount inhaled. The RTM determines the type of exposure and amount inhaled, providing the ability to quickly establish a course of treatment.
"I am thrilled that we have finally received the patent for this technology," said Dr. Waller, a professor with the Faculty of Energy Systems and Nuclear Science. "It has enormous potential to save lives and I look forward to the day when the mask becomes another device added to the EMS workers toolkit."
Dr. Waller, a Canadian delegate with the NATO working group investigating radiation bio-effects and countermeasures for the last five years, has been researching radiological dispersal devices and their effects for more than 10 years. His first sketches of the mask were created in June 2006 and shortly thereafter he began developing the prototype with the help of Sharman Perara, a research assistant, and UOIT students Andrew Fitchett and Saurabh Srivistava, who worked on the research project during the summer of 2006. In the fall of 2006 Fitchett partnered with Michael Labriola and Alan Tung to work on the RTM as part of their fourth-year Nuclear Engineering thesis project.
In early 2007 the prototype was disclosed to the university's Office of Technology Transfer and Commercialization (OTTC), which assists faculty and students with obtaining patent protection for technologies created as result of research projects conducted at the university. The U.S. patent application for the RTM was submitted in December 2007 and after a lengthy process of defending the patent, the submission was successful. OTTC will continue to work with Dr. Waller and potential industry partners to find the best commercialization route for the technology. International patents are pending.
"The radiation triage mask is an excellent example of how top notch research can be effectively transferred to a product that has the potential to make a difference in people's lives," said Dr. Ann Dulhanty, manager, OTTC. "We are fortunate to be able to work with inventors such as Dr. Waller and look forward to pursuing and receiving many more patents for the outstanding work conducted by our world-class researchers and exceptional students."
In seven years, UOIT has gained a solid reputation as a research-intensive university; establishing its first spin-off company, filing more than 30 patents in various jurisdictions and receiving six prestigious Canada Research Chairs and five Industrial Research Chairs. UOIT research is focused on five primary research themes, all of which emphasize a multidisciplinary approach: Applied Bioscience; Automotive, Materials and Manufacturing; Community and Social Wellness; Information and Communication; and Sustainable Energy. With these themes closely aligned with both federal and provincial research and innovation priorities in the context of Advantage Canada's Federal Science and Technology Strategy and the Ontario Innovation Agenda, UOIT is well-positioned to positively impact the Canadian economy and our social well-being.
About UOIT
As an innovative university, UOIT delivers a leading-edge learning environment that uniquely combines academic knowledge, research opportunities, hands-on skills and a vibrant student life. UOIT's more than 6,500 undergraduate and graduate students are taught by professors who are experts in their fields from around the world. As Ontario's first laptop-based university, the university offers a diverse array of challenging undergraduate and graduate degree programs through its faculties of Business and Information Technology; Criminology, Justice and Policy Studies; Education; Energy Systems and Nuclear Science; Engineering and Applied Science; Health Sciences; and Science. UOIT's commitment to research excellence has resulted in millions of dollars in grants and awards, including six Canada Research Chairs. To find out more, visit www.uoit.ca or call 905.721.8668.
About Ontario Tech University
A modern, forwarding-thinking university, Ontario Tech advances the discovery and application of knowledge to accelerate economic growth, regional development and social innovation. We inspire and equip our students and our graduates to make a positive impact in a tech-focused world. For us, it’s not only about developing the next tech breakthrough. Understanding and integrating the social and ethical implications of technology differentiates us as university. Learn more at ontariotechu.ca.
Media contact
Melissa Levy
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
905.721.8668 ext. 2513
melissa.levy@uoit.ca
