United States Patent 11,191,908: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 11,191,908, titled "Syringe shock absorber for use in an injection device," is a significant innovation in the field of medical devices, particularly in the realm of injection technology. This patent, granted to address specific challenges in injection devices, offers a comprehensive solution to enhance the efficacy and safety of injections.
Background and Context
Injection devices, including auto-injectors and jet injectors, are crucial for administering medications. However, these devices often face issues related to the force required for injection, patient comfort, and the reliability of the injection process. The invention described in US Patent 11,191,908 aims to mitigate these issues by introducing a shock absorbing member within the injection device.
Key Components of the Invention
Shock Absorbing Member
The core of the invention is the shock absorbing member, which is designed to reduce the impact and stress associated with the injection process. This member includes a sleeve configured to hold a medicament chamber, with a proximal end, a distal end, and a middle portion. The sleeve incorporates a compressible element that can deform under load, reducing the overall length of the sleeve by more than 0.43% relative to its original length[1].
Load and Deformation
The compressible element is subjected to a load within the range of spring forces used in auto-injectors, typically between 18.5 lbs and 53 lbs. This deformation is reversible in some embodiments, allowing the sleeve to return substantially to its original length once the load is removed. In other embodiments, the compressible element may be irreversibly deformed after the load is removed[1].
Placement of Compressible Element
The compressible element can be located at various positions within the sleeve, including the distal end, proximal end, or middle portion. This flexibility in design allows for different configurations to suit various injection device requirements[1].
Functionality and Benefits
Reduced Psychological Trauma
The higher pressure applied by the injection device, facilitated by the shock absorbing member, results in a faster injection time. This reduces psychological trauma to the patient and decreases the likelihood of premature termination of the injection by the user[1].
Enhanced Injection Depth
The pressure applied is sufficient to penetrate the skin and disperse the medicament into the tissue below, ensuring that the medication remains substantially within the body. This is particularly beneficial as it ensures effective delivery of the medication[1].
Failure Rate Reduction
The inclusion of the shock absorbing member in the injection device significantly reduces the failure rate of the device. This is achieved by absorbing the shock and stress during the injection process, thereby enhancing the reliability of the device[1].
Types of Injection Devices
Auto-Injectors
The invention is particularly useful for auto-injectors, which benefit from the reduced force required for injection compared to traditional jet injectors. The shock absorbing member helps in maintaining the necessary pressure for effective medication delivery without causing undue stress on the device[1].
Jet Injectors
While the invention is less forceful than traditional jet injectors, it still provides a higher pressure than conventional auto-injectors. This makes it suitable for applications where jet injectors are used but with the added benefit of reduced psychological trauma and improved reliability[1].
Powered Injectors
The patent also covers powered injectors, which can utilize the shock absorbing member to enhance their performance. Powered injectors often require a balance between force and control, and the shock absorbing member helps in achieving this balance[1].
Patent Claims and Scope
Method of Reducing Failure Rate
The patent includes claims related to a method of reducing the failure rate of an injection device by providing an injection device with a shock absorbing member. This method is crucial for ensuring the reliability and efficacy of the device[1].
Structural Claims
The structural claims of the patent detail the design and configuration of the shock absorbing member, including the sleeve and the compressible element. These claims are essential for defining the scope of the invention and distinguishing it from prior art[1].
Patent Landscape
Prior Art
The invention builds upon existing technologies in injection devices but introduces a novel solution to address specific challenges. The prior art keywords mentioned in the patent, such as "sleeve," "injector," and "injection device," highlight the areas where the invention provides significant improvements[1].
Competitive Landscape
The patent landscape in the field of medical injection devices is highly competitive, with numerous patents and innovations aimed at improving safety, efficacy, and patient comfort. The US Patent 11,191,908 stands out by offering a unique solution that combines reduced force with enhanced reliability and faster injection times[1].
Regulatory and Legal Aspects
USPTO Guidelines
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) plays a crucial role in granting patents and ensuring that they meet the required standards. The USPTO's guidelines on patent quality and the definition of patentable subject matter are relevant to the scope and claims of this patent[2][4].
Inventorship and Patent Ownership
Correct determination of inventorship is critical in patent law. The true and only inventors must be identified, and any errors or deceptive intent can render the patent unenforceable. Ensuring proper inventorship is essential for maintaining the validity and enforceability of the patent[5].
Industry Impact and Future Directions
Market Adoption
The adoption of this technology in the medical industry could significantly improve patient outcomes by reducing the stress and trauma associated with injections. Manufacturers of injection devices are likely to integrate this innovation to enhance their product offerings.
Future Innovations
The concept of a shock absorbing member in injection devices opens up avenues for further research and development. Future innovations could focus on optimizing the design of the compressible element, exploring different materials, and expanding the application of this technology to other medical devices.
Key Takeaways
- Innovation in Injection Technology: The patent introduces a novel shock absorbing member to enhance the efficacy and safety of injection devices.
- Reduced Psychological Trauma: Faster injection times and reduced force minimize patient discomfort.
- Enhanced Reliability: The shock absorbing member reduces the failure rate of injection devices.
- Versatile Applications: Suitable for auto-injectors, jet injectors, and powered injectors.
- Regulatory Compliance: Adheres to USPTO guidelines and emphasizes the importance of correct inventorship.
FAQs
Q: What is the primary function of the shock absorbing member in US Patent 11,191,908?
A: The primary function is to reduce the impact and stress during the injection process, ensuring faster injection times and reduced psychological trauma to the patient.
Q: How does the compressible element in the shock absorbing member work?
A: The compressible element deforms under load, reducing the overall length of the sleeve, and can return to its original length once the load is removed.
Q: What types of injection devices can benefit from this invention?
A: Auto-injectors, jet injectors, and powered injectors can all benefit from the inclusion of the shock absorbing member.
Q: Why is correct inventorship important in patent law?
A: Correct inventorship is crucial to ensure the validity and enforceability of the patent. Errors or deceptive intent can render the patent unenforceable.
Q: How does this patent impact the medical industry?
A: The patent has the potential to improve patient outcomes by reducing the stress and trauma associated with injections, and manufacturers are likely to adopt this technology to enhance their products.
Sources
- US Patent 11,191,908: Syringe shock absorber for use in an injection device - Google Patents.
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO): USAGov.
- Patent Claims Research Dataset: USPTO.
- Intellectual Property: Patent Office Should Define Quality, Reassess ...: GAO.
- Determining Inventorship for US Patent Applications: Oregon State University.
