Details for Patent: 10,166,334

Summary for Patent: 10,166,334

Title:	Medicine injection apparatuses
Abstract:	A medicine injector in which a barrel with a receiving cavity is adapted to slidably receive a syringe subassembly for axial movement therein. Upon removal of a safety and release of a syringe driver, the syringe driver moves forward and injects the syringe needle. Penetration controls are shown for controlling needle penetration depth. In one form the penetration control uses a sleeve and spring which are radially adjacent. A cushioning ring or other cushion may be used to reduce syringe breakage. A load distribution and guide ring may be used to distribute loading applied to the syringe and help guide the moving syringe.
Inventor(s):	Wyrick; Ronald E. (Spokane, WA)
Assignee:	Washington Biotech Corporation (Spokane, WA)
Application Number:	12/569,529
Patent Litigation and PTAB cases:	See patent lawsuits and PTAB cases for patent 10,166,334
Patent Claim Types: see list of patent claims	Device; Dosage form;

Comprehensive Analysis of US Patent 10,166,334: Medicine Injection Apparatuses

In the world of medical technology, innovation is key to improving patient care and treatment outcomes. One such innovation is the medicine injection apparatus described in United States Patent 10,166,334. This patent, granted to inventors Donald Schriver and Evan Schriver, represents a significant advancement in the field of injectable medicine delivery systems. Let's dive deep into the scope, claims, and patent landscape of this groundbreaking invention.

Overview of US Patent 10,166,334

US Patent 10,166,334, titled "Medicine injection apparatuses," was issued on January 1, 2019[1]. The patent describes a novel design for a medicine injector that incorporates a barrel with a receiving cavity adapted to slidably receive a syringe subassembly. This design allows for axial movement within the injector, providing improved control and precision during the injection process.

Key Features of the Invention

The medicine injection apparatus described in this patent boasts several innovative features:

1. A barrel with a receiving cavity for the syringe subassembly
2. Axial movement capability of the syringe within the barrel
3. A driver mechanism for controlling the injection process
4. Multiple dosage administration capabilities
5. Adjustable needle penetration depth control

These features collectively contribute to a more efficient, versatile, and user-friendly injection device.

Scope of the Patent

The scope of US Patent 10,166,334 is quite broad, covering various aspects of medicine injection apparatuses. It encompasses not only the physical structure of the device but also its functionality and potential applications.

Physical Structure

The patent describes in detail the physical components of the injection apparatus, including:

• The barrel and its receiving cavity
• The syringe subassembly
• The driver mechanism
• Various penetration control mechanisms
• Dosage adjustment features

Functionality

The patent also covers the functional aspects of the device, such as:

• The axial movement of the syringe within the barrel
• The process of needle penetration and retraction
• The mechanism for administering multiple doses
• Methods for controlling needle penetration depth

Potential Applications

While the patent primarily focuses on medical applications, its scope potentially extends to other fields where precise fluid injection is required. This broad scope enhances the patent's value and potential impact across various industries.

Analysis of Patent Claims

The claims section of a patent is crucial as it defines the legal boundaries of the invention's protection. US Patent 10,166,334 includes both independent and dependent claims, each contributing to the overall scope of the patent.

Independent Claims

The patent contains several independent claims, each describing a distinct aspect of the invention. For example, Claim 1 describes:

"A medicine injector comprising: a barrel having a muzzle end with a needle receiving aperture; a syringe subassembly receiving cavity within said barrel adjacent said muzzle end; said syringe subassembly receiving cavity adapted to releasably and slidably receive a syringe subassembly for movement toward and away from said muzzle end..."[1]

This claim establishes the basic structure of the medicine injector, setting the foundation for the subsequent claims.

Dependent Claims

The dependent claims build upon the independent claims, adding specific features or variations. For instance, Claim 2 introduces the concept of a penetration controller:

"The medicine injector of claim 1 and further comprising a penetration controller mounted upon said barrel adjacent said muzzle end for controlling needle penetration depth."[1]

These dependent claims serve to broaden the patent's scope and provide additional protection for various aspects of the invention.

Patent Landscape Analysis

Understanding the patent landscape is crucial for assessing the uniqueness and potential impact of an invention. In the case of US Patent 10,166,334, the landscape reveals a competitive but innovative field.

Prior Art

The patent cites several prior art references, including other patents and publications related to injection devices. These citations help establish the context of the invention and demonstrate its novelty compared to existing technologies.

Market Players

An analysis of the patent landscape reveals several key players in the field of injectable medicine delivery systems. Companies like Hospira, Inc. are mentioned in the patent, indicating their presence in this technological space[1].

Technological Trends

The patent landscape for injection devices shows a trend towards increased precision, safety, and user-friendliness. US Patent 10,166,334 aligns with these trends, offering features like adjustable needle penetration depth and multiple dosage capabilities.

Implications for the Medical Industry

The invention described in US Patent 10,166,334 has significant implications for the medical industry, particularly in the field of injectable medications.

Improved Patient Safety

The adjustable needle penetration depth feature can enhance patient safety by reducing the risk of over-penetration and associated complications. This is particularly beneficial for patients with varying body types or for injections in sensitive areas.

Enhanced Dosage Control

The ability to administer multiple doses from the same syringe subassembly can improve dosage accuracy and reduce waste. This feature is especially valuable for medications that require precise dosing or frequent administration.

Potential Cost Savings

By allowing for multiple doses from a single syringe subassembly, this invention could potentially reduce the overall cost of injectable medications. This cost-saving aspect could have far-reaching implications for healthcare providers and patients alike.

Potential Applications Beyond Medicine

While primarily designed for medical use, the technology described in US Patent 10,166,334 could potentially find applications in other fields:

1. Veterinary medicine
2. Research laboratories
3. Industrial fluid injection systems
4. Precision agriculture

These potential applications further underscore the broad scope and value of this patent.

Challenges and Limitations

Despite its innovative features, the invention described in US Patent 10,166,334 may face certain challenges:

1. Regulatory approval processes for medical devices
2. Manufacturing complexities due to the device's intricate design
3. User training requirements for proper operation
4. Potential competition from established injection device manufacturers

Addressing these challenges will be crucial for the successful commercialization of this technology.

Future Developments and Improvements

The technology described in US Patent 10,166,334 lays the groundwork for future developments in injection devices. Potential areas for improvement could include:

1. Integration of smart technology for dosage tracking
2. Development of biodegradable components for increased sustainability
3. Incorporation of pain reduction mechanisms
4. Adaptation for use with a wider range of injectable substances

These potential improvements could further enhance the value and applicability of the patented technology.

Impact on Patent Strategy

The broad scope and innovative features of US Patent 10,166,334 demonstrate a strong patent strategy. This strategy likely involves:

1. Filing multiple related patents to create a patent portfolio
2. Protecting various aspects of the invention through independent and dependent claims
3. Considering international patent protection for global market potential
4. Monitoring the patent landscape for potential infringement or licensing opportunities

This comprehensive approach to patent protection can significantly enhance the value of the invention and its potential for commercialization.

Key Takeaways

US Patent 10,166,334 represents a significant advancement in medicine injection apparatuses. Its key features include adjustable needle penetration depth, multiple dosage capabilities, and a unique syringe subassembly design. The patent's broad scope covers both the physical structure and functionality of the device, with potential applications extending beyond the medical field. While the invention faces some challenges, its innovative features and comprehensive patent protection strategy position it well for future development and commercialization. As the medical industry continues to evolve, technologies like this will play a crucial role in improving patient care and treatment outcomes.

FAQs

1. Q: What is the main innovation described in US Patent 10,166,334? A: The main innovation is a medicine injector with a barrel that can slidably receive a syringe subassembly, allowing for axial movement and improved control during injection.

2. Q: How does this invention improve patient safety? A: The invention includes features like adjustable needle penetration depth control, which can reduce the risk of over-penetration and associated complications.

3. Q: Can this technology be used outside of medical applications? A: While primarily designed for medical use, the technology could potentially be adapted for use in veterinary medicine, research laboratories, industrial fluid injection systems, and precision agriculture.

4. Q: What are some potential future improvements for this technology? A: Future improvements could include integration of smart technology for dosage tracking, development of biodegradable components, incorporation of pain reduction mechanisms, and adaptation for use with a wider range of injectable substances.

5. Q: How does this patent impact the overall patent landscape for injection devices? A: This patent contributes to the trend towards increased precision, safety, and user-friendliness in injection devices. Its broad scope and innovative features may influence future developments in the field and potentially lead to licensing opportunities or further patent filings.

Sources cited:

1. https://patents.google.com/patent/US10166334B2/en

Drugs Protected by US Patent 10,166,334

Applicant	Tradename	Generic Name	Dosage	NDA	Approval Date	TE	Type	RLD	RS	Patent No.	Patent Expiration	Product	Substance	Delist Req.	Patented / Exclusive Use	Submissiondate
No data available in table

International Family Members for US Patent 10,166,334

Country	Patent Number	Estimated Expiration	Supplementary Protection Certificate	SPC Country	SPC Expiration
Australia	2005314174
Australia	2005314401
Brazil	PI0518415
Brazil	PI0518460
Canada	2585707
Canada	2589899