United States Patent 4,061,779: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 4,061,779, issued on November 29, 1977, is a significant patent in the realm of organic chemistry, particularly focusing on the synthesis of specific organic compounds. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this patent.
Background and Inventors
The patent was granted to inventors who developed a method for the condensation of specific organic compounds. Understanding the background of the inventors and the research institution or company they were affiliated with can provide context on the motivations and technological advancements of the time.
Scope of the Patent
Chemical Compounds and Synthesis
The patent primarily deals with the synthesis of organic compounds, specifically the condensation reaction between 6-methoxy-naphthaldehyde and acetone. This reaction, promoted by bases, results in the formation of 4-(6-methoxy-2-naphthyl)-3-buten-2-one[5].
Industrial Applications
The compounds synthesized through this method have various industrial applications, including but not limited to, the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and other fine chemicals. The scope of the patent extends to these applications, highlighting the versatility and potential economic impact of the invention.
Claims of the Patent
Independent and Dependent Claims
The patent includes several claims, both independent and dependent. Independent claims define the broad scope of the invention, while dependent claims narrow down the scope by adding specific limitations.
- Independent Claims: These claims outline the general method of synthesizing the compound, including the reactants and the conditions under which the reaction is carried out.
- Dependent Claims: These claims specify particular aspects of the method, such as the type of base used, the reaction temperature, and the yield of the product.
Claim Construction
Claim construction is crucial in understanding the patent's scope. It involves interpreting the language of the claims to determine what is covered by the patent. In this case, the claims are constructed to ensure that the method of synthesis is clearly defined and distinguishable from prior art.
Patent Prosecution History
Patent Application and Examination Process
The patent prosecution history provides valuable insights into the interactions between the inventors and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This includes any amendments made to the claims, responses to office actions, and the final determination of patentability.
Prior Art and Anticipation
During the prosecution process, the USPTO evaluates whether the invention is novel and non-obvious over prior art. For Patent 4,061,779, any prior art that was considered and how it was distinguished from the current invention is crucial in understanding the patent's validity and enforceability.
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Applications
The patent landscape includes other patents and applications related to the synthesis of similar organic compounds. Tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search and Global Dossier can help identify related patents and their status, providing a comprehensive view of the intellectual property landscape in this field[4].
Competitors and Market Impact
Understanding the competitors and the market impact of the patent is essential. This involves analyzing other companies or researchers working on similar compounds and their patent portfolios. The economic impact of this patent can be significant if it provides a more efficient or cost-effective method of synthesis.
Legal and Regulatory Aspects
Patent Litigation and Enforcement
Patents can be subject to litigation, especially if there are disputes over validity or infringement. The legal and regulatory aspects, including any litigation history or enforcement actions related to this patent, are critical in assessing its strength and enforceability.
International Protection
The patent's protection extends beyond the United States if it has been filed in other jurisdictions. The Global Dossier service provided by the USPTO can help in tracking the international patent family and any corresponding office actions or grants[4].
Industry Expert Insights
Industry experts often provide valuable insights into the practical applications and the economic viability of patented inventions. For example, experts in the field of organic chemistry might comment on the novelty and utility of the synthesis method described in the patent.
Statistical Analysis
Patent Claims and Scope
Statistical analysis of patent claims, such as those provided by the USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset, can offer insights into the scope and complexity of the patent. This dataset includes detailed information on claims from US patents and can help in comparing the scope of this patent with others in the same field[3].
Examples and Case Studies
Practical Applications
Real-world examples of how the patented method has been used in industry can illustrate its practical applications. For instance, if the compound synthesized through this method is used in a specific pharmaceutical product, detailing this application can highlight the patent's impact.
Key Takeaways
- Scope and Claims: The patent covers a specific method of synthesizing an organic compound, with both independent and dependent claims defining the scope.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape of related patents and applications, influencing and being influenced by other intellectual property in the field.
- Legal and Regulatory: Understanding the legal and regulatory aspects, including any litigation or international protection, is crucial for assessing the patent's strength.
- Industry Impact: The patent has significant industrial applications, potentially impacting various sectors such as pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals.
FAQs
What is the main compound synthesized in US Patent 4,061,779?
The main compound synthesized is 4-(6-methoxy-2-naphthyl)-3-buten-2-one through the condensation of 6-methoxy-naphthaldehyde and acetone.
What are the industrial applications of the synthesized compound?
The compound has various industrial applications, including the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and other fine chemicals.
How can one search for related patents in the same field?
Tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search and Global Dossier can be used to search for related patents and track their status.
What is the significance of the patent prosecution history?
The patent prosecution history provides insights into the interactions between the inventors and the USPTO, including any amendments and responses to office actions.
How does the patent impact the market?
The patent can have a significant market impact by providing a more efficient or cost-effective method of synthesizing the compound, potentially influencing various industries.
Sources
- US Patent 4,061,779 - Process for the condensation between 6-methoxy-naphthaldehyde and acetone.
- USPTO Patent Public Search - Tools for searching patents and related applications.
- USPTO Patent Claims Research Dataset - Detailed information on claims from US patents.
- USPTO Global Dossier - Service for tracking international patent families.
- Google Patents - ITMI971006A1 - Process for the condensation between 6-methoxy-naphthaldehyde and acetone.
