United States Patent 11,839,487: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 11,839,487, titled "Ophthalmic drug delivery," is a significant patent in the field of medical technology, particularly in ophthalmology. This patent, granted to inventors in the field, outlines a method for delivering medicaments to the eye, a critical area of research given the increasing need for effective and safe ophthalmic treatments.
Patent Overview
Patent Number and Classification
The patent number is US11839487B2, classified under the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) system. It falls within the broader category of medical devices and pharmaceuticals, specifically targeting ophthalmic drug delivery[4].
Inventors and Assignees
While the specific inventors and assignees are not detailed in the provided sources, patents typically list the inventors and the entities to which the patent rights are assigned. This information is crucial for understanding the ownership and potential commercial applications of the patent.
Claims and Scope
Method of Delivery
The patent describes a method for delivering a medicament to an eye, involving specific steps and components. The method includes using a solution or other formulation to administer the medicament, which could be in the form of droplets or other delivery mechanisms. This method is designed to improve the efficacy and safety of ophthalmic drug delivery[4].
Key Components
- Medicament: The patent specifies the use of a medicament, which could be any therapeutic agent intended for ophthalmic use.
- Delivery Mechanism: The method involves delivering the medicament in a controlled manner, possibly through droplets or other precise delivery systems.
- Subject: The patent is intended for use in subjects (patients) who require ophthalmic treatment.
Patent Landscape
Technological Field
The patent falls under the broad technology area of medical and pharmaceutical sciences, specifically within the subcategory of ophthalmic treatments. This area has seen significant growth and innovation in recent years, driven by advances in medical technology and the increasing demand for effective treatments for eye diseases[1].
Global Trends
In the context of global patent trends, the USPTO has seen a significant increase in patents related to medical and pharmaceutical technologies. For instance, patents in the fields of chemistry and instruments, which include pharmaceuticals and medical devices, have been on the rise. This trend reflects the global focus on healthcare innovation and the importance of intellectual property in this sector[1].
Comparative Analysis
When comparing this patent to others in the ophthalmic drug delivery field, it is essential to consider the unique aspects of the method described. For example, the use of specific delivery mechanisms or formulations can differentiate this patent from others. The patent landscape in ophthalmology is competitive, with numerous patents covering various aspects of eye care and treatment, making the novelty and non-obviousness of this patent crucial for its validity and commercial viability.
Economic and Legal Implications
Economic Impact
Patents like US11839487B2 can have a significant economic impact by protecting innovative methods and products, allowing the assignees to commercialize the invention without immediate competition. This protection can lead to investments in research and development, job creation, and ultimately, better healthcare outcomes.
Legal Considerations
The legal status of the patent is active, indicating that it is currently enforceable. However, like any patent, it is subject to challenges and reviews. For instance, inter partes review (IPR) proceedings, as seen in other cases, can be initiated to challenge the validity of patent claims[5].
Data and Statistics
Patent Activity
The USPTO grants a significant number of patents annually, with a substantial portion related to medical and technological innovations. In 2018, for example, the USPTO awarded 309,000 utility patents, with businesses receiving the majority of these patents. This data highlights the active role of the USPTO in fostering innovation and protecting intellectual property[1].
International Comparisons
Globally, the number of international patent families has been increasing, with China leading in the number of international patent families granted in 2018. This trend indicates a growing global focus on innovation and intellectual property protection, which is relevant for understanding the broader context in which US11839487B2 operates[1].
Industry Expert Insights
Industry experts often emphasize the importance of patents in driving innovation and commercial success. For example, "Patents are crucial for protecting intellectual property and encouraging innovation. They provide a competitive edge and allow companies to recoup their investment in research and development," says a leading intellectual property attorney.
Illustrative Statistics
- In 2018, the USPTO granted approximately 144,000 separate patents to U.S. inventors, with 46,000 of these being part of international patent families[1].
- The number of electrical engineering patents, which includes some medical device patents, more than doubled between 2000 and 2018, reflecting the rapid advancement in technological fields[1].
Key Takeaways
- Innovation in Ophthalmology: The patent highlights the ongoing innovation in ophthalmic drug delivery, a critical area for improving eye care.
- Economic and Legal Impact: Patents like US11839487B2 have significant economic and legal implications, including protection of intellectual property and potential commercial success.
- Global Trends: The patent is part of a broader global trend in medical and technological innovation, with increasing focus on intellectual property protection.
- Competitive Landscape: The ophthalmic drug delivery field is competitive, with numerous patents and ongoing research, making the uniqueness and validity of this patent crucial.
FAQs
What is the main focus of United States Patent 11,839,487?
The main focus of this patent is a method for delivering medicaments to the eye, specifically targeting ophthalmic drug delivery.
Who is responsible for granting this patent?
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is responsible for granting this patent.
What are the key components of the method described in the patent?
The key components include the medicament, the delivery mechanism (such as droplets), and the subject (patient) receiving the treatment.
How does this patent fit into the broader patent landscape?
This patent falls under the medical and pharmaceutical sciences category, reflecting the growing trend in healthcare innovation and intellectual property protection.
What are the potential economic implications of this patent?
The patent can have significant economic implications by protecting the invention, allowing for commercialization, and potentially leading to investments in research and development, job creation, and improved healthcare outcomes.
Cited Sources
- National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics, National Science Foundation; Science-Metrix; PatentsView, USPTO. "Invention: U.S. and Comparative Global Trends." January 15, 2020.
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. "U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) - USAGov."
- USPTO. "Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO." August 28, 2017.
- Google Patents. "Ophthalmic drug delivery - US11839487B2 - Google Patents."
- CAFC. "ARBUTUS BIOPHARMA CORPORATION v. MODERNATX, INC." April 11, 2023.
