United States Patent 3,812,147: A Detailed Analysis of Scope and Claims
Introduction
United States Patent 3,812,147, titled "Acylxylidide local anaesthetics," was granted for the invention of specific local anesthetic compounds. This patent, filed in 1970 and granted in 1973, is significant in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly for its contribution to the development of long-lasting local anesthetics.
Background and Prior Art
The patent is a continuation-in-part of an earlier application (US application Ser. No. 100,777), which was filed on December 22, 1970, and later abandoned. This indicates that the inventors had been working on related compounds and techniques before refining their invention to the point of this patent[1].
Scope of the Invention
The patent focuses on 2-alkyl-2-alkylamino-2',6-acetoxylidide compounds, which are identified as useful for their long-lasting local anesthetic properties. These compounds are part of a broader class of acylxylidides, and the specific structural formulae and synthesis methods are detailed in the patent.
Key Claims
The patent includes several key claims that define the scope of the invention:
- Claim 1: This claim describes the general structure of the 2-alkyl-2-alkylamino-2',6-acetoxylidide compounds.
- Subsequent Claims: These claims specify various derivatives and modifications of the base compound, including different alkyl and alkylamino groups, and the methods for their preparation[1].
Technical Details
The patent provides a detailed description of the chemical structures and the synthesis methods for these compounds. For example, one of the commercially available compounds mentioned is N-n-butylpipecolyl-2,6-xylidide, known by the trademark Marcaine. This compound has a specific structural formula and is highlighted for its efficacy as a long-lasting local anesthetic[1].
Patent Landscape
To understand the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention, it is essential to consider the following aspects:
- Related Patents: Other patents in the field of local anesthetics would be relevant. For instance, patents related to other types of anesthetic compounds or delivery methods could provide context on the competitive and technological landscape.
- Claim Coverage: Analyzing the claims of this patent in relation to other patents in the field can help identify gaps or overlaps in intellectual property protection. Tools like Claim Coverage Matrix and Claim Charts, as described in patent analytics services, can be useful for this purpose[3].
Strategic Claim Management
The management of claims in this patent is crucial for its value and effectiveness. Here are some strategies that could be applied:
- Optimizing Claim Structure: Ensuring that the patent utilizes its full entitlement of claims (up to 20 claims in the U.S.) can enhance its breadth and flexibility. This involves consolidating dependent claims into broader independent claims and adding new dependent claims for canceled ones[5].
- Aligning with USPTO Requirements: During the patent prosecution phase, claims may need to be amended to align with the USPTO's requirements for patentability. This process can be optimized to ensure maximum value for the patent[5].
Economic and Practical Implications
The strategic management of claims in this patent has significant economic and practical implications:
- Enhanced Protection: By ensuring that each patent utilizes its full complement of claims, inventors can secure more robust and nuanced protection for their inventions. This enhances the patent’s defensive capabilities and its value in licensing discussions or infringement disputes[5].
- Commercial Success: A meticulously managed patent with a full entitlement of claims demonstrates a value-driven approach to intellectual property, which can differentiate the patent’s quality and potential for commercial success[5].
Industry Impact
The invention described in this patent has had a notable impact on the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the field of local anesthetics:
- Long-Lasting Anesthetics: The development of long-lasting local anesthetics like bupivacaine (Marcaine) has revolutionized medical procedures by providing prolonged pain relief with fewer administrations.
- Clinical Use: These compounds are widely used in various medical specialties, including dentistry, surgery, and pain management, improving patient care and outcomes.
Future Directions
The patent landscape around local anesthetics continues to evolve. Future directions may include:
- New Compounds and Delivery Methods: Research into new anesthetic compounds and innovative delivery methods could further enhance the efficacy and safety of local anesthetics.
- Patent Analytics: Utilizing advanced patent analytics tools to track and manage patent claims can help companies identify gaps in their intellectual property protection and explore new design opportunities[3].
Key Takeaways
- Specific Compounds: The patent focuses on 2-alkyl-2-alkylamino-2',6-acetoxylidide compounds as long-lasting local anesthetics.
- Claim Management: Strategic management of claims is crucial for maximizing the patent’s value and effectiveness.
- Industry Impact: The invention has significantly impacted the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the development of long-lasting local anesthetics.
- Future Directions: Continued research and advanced patent analytics are essential for maintaining a competitive edge in the field.
FAQs
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What is the main focus of United States Patent 3,812,147?
- The main focus is on 2-alkyl-2-alkylamino-2',6-acetoxylidide compounds as long-lasting local anesthetics.
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What is the significance of the compound N-n-butylpipecolyl-2,6-xylidide?
- This compound, known by the trademark Marcaine, is a commercially available long-lasting local anesthetic.
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How can the claims in this patent be optimized for maximum value?
- By ensuring the patent utilizes its full entitlement of claims, consolidating dependent claims into broader independent claims, and adding new dependent claims for canceled ones.
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What tools can be used to analyze the patent landscape around this invention?
- Tools like Claim Coverage Matrix and Claim Charts, as well as advanced patent analytics software, can be used to analyze the patent landscape.
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What is the economic impact of strategically managing claims in this patent?
- Strategic claim management enhances the patent’s defensive capabilities, its value in licensing discussions, and its potential for commercial success.
Sources
- US3812147A - Acylxylidide local anaesthetics - Google Patents
- Patent Claims Research Dataset | USPTO
- Patent Analytics | Intellectual Property Law
- New Slippery Surface Coating for Food Packaging - GreyB
- Maximizing Patent Value: A Strategic Approach to Claim Management
