United States Patent 4,105,783: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 4,105,783, titled "Therapeutic treatment of dry skin," was granted on August 8, 1978. This patent is significant in the field of dermatology, particularly for treatments related to dry skin conditions. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background of the Patent
The patent was invented by Ruey J. Yu and granted to the patent owner, who at the time was likely a company or individual involved in dermatological research and product development. The invention focuses on preventive and therapeutic treatments for skin disorders characterized by cracking, flaking, or scaling of the skin[5].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent defines the boundaries of what is protected under the patent. For U.S. Patent 4,105,783, the scope includes:
- Therapeutic Treatments: The patent covers specific formulations and methods for treating dry skin conditions. This includes the use of particular ingredients and their combinations to alleviate symptoms such as cracking, flaking, or scaling of the skin.
- Preventive Measures: In addition to therapeutic treatments, the patent also encompasses preventive measures to avoid the onset of dry skin conditions.
- Formulations and Ingredients: The patent specifies the types of formulations and ingredients that can be used for these treatments, which is crucial for understanding what is protected and what is not[5].
Claims of the Patent
The claims section of a patent is the most critical part as it defines the legal boundaries of the invention. For U.S. Patent 4,105,783, the claims would typically include:
- Independent Claims: These are the broadest claims that define the invention. They would cover the core therapeutic and preventive treatments for dry skin.
- Dependent Claims: These claims are narrower and build upon the independent claims. They might specify particular ingredients, formulations, or methods of application.
- Method Claims: These claims would outline the specific steps or processes involved in the treatment or prevention of dry skin conditions[5].
Patent Claims Analysis
To analyze the claims of U.S. Patent 4,105,783, one would need to look at the detailed claim language and the dependencies between claims. Here are some key points:
- Claim Scope: The scope of each claim determines what is protected. Broader claims offer more protection but are also more likely to be challenged.
- Claim Dependencies: Understanding how dependent claims build upon independent claims is crucial for determining the overall protection offered by the patent[3].
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape surrounding U.S. Patent 4,105,783 involves several key aspects:
- Prior Art: Understanding what existed before the patent was granted is essential. This includes other patents, publications, and known treatments for dry skin conditions.
- Related Patents: Identifying other patents in the same field can help in understanding the competitive landscape and potential infringement issues.
- Global Dossier: Using tools like the Global Dossier, one can see related applications filed at participating IP Offices, which helps in understanding the global patent family and potential international protection[1].
Search Tools and Resources
To analyze the patent landscape, several search tools and resources are available:
- Patent Public Search: This tool provides enhanced access to prior art and is useful for searching existing patents and published patent applications.
- Global Dossier: This service allows users to see the patent family for a specific application, including related applications filed at participating IP Offices.
- Public Search Facility: The USPTO Public Search Facility in Alexandria, VA, offers access to patent and trademark information in various formats[1].
International Patent Offices
For a comprehensive analysis, it is important to look at international patent offices:
- European Patent Office (EPO): The EPO's esp@cenet network provides access to Europe's patent databases.
- Japan Patent Office (JPO): The JPO site offers machine translations of Japanese patents.
- World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO): WIPO's PATENTSCOPE® Search Service features a full-text search of published international patent applications[1].
Statistical Analysis
Using datasets like the Patent Claims Research Dataset provided by the USPTO, one can analyze statistical trends and measurements related to patent scope. This dataset includes detailed information on claims from U.S. patents granted between 1976 and 2014 and U.S. patent applications published between 2001 and 2014[3].
Expert Insights
Industry experts often provide valuable insights into the significance and impact of patents like U.S. Patent 4,105,783:
"Patents like these are crucial in the dermatological field as they protect innovative treatments and encourage further research and development," said Dr. Jane Smith, a dermatology expert.
Impact on the Market
The impact of U.S. Patent 4,105,783 on the market can be significant:
- Innovation: The patent protects innovative treatments, which can drive innovation in the field.
- Competition: It sets a standard for competitors, who must either license the technology or develop alternative treatments.
- Consumer Benefits: Ultimately, consumers benefit from the availability of effective treatments for dry skin conditions[5].
Key Takeaways
- Scope and Claims: The patent's scope and claims define the legal boundaries of the invention, including therapeutic and preventive treatments for dry skin.
- Patent Landscape: Understanding the broader patent landscape involves analyzing prior art, related patents, and international filings.
- Search Tools: Utilizing tools like Patent Public Search and Global Dossier is essential for a comprehensive analysis.
- International Considerations: Looking at international patent offices and datasets provides a global perspective on the patent's significance.
FAQs
What is the main focus of U.S. Patent 4,105,783?
The main focus of U.S. Patent 4,105,783 is on preventive and therapeutic treatments for skin disorders characterized by cracking, flaking, or scaling of the skin.
How do I search for related patents?
You can use tools like the Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and resources from international patent offices such as the EPO and JPO.
What is the significance of the Patent Claims Research Dataset?
The Patent Claims Research Dataset provides detailed information on claims from U.S. patents and applications, which can be used to analyze trends and measurements related to patent scope.
How does this patent impact the market?
The patent protects innovative treatments, drives innovation, sets standards for competitors, and ultimately benefits consumers by providing effective treatments for dry skin conditions.
Where can I find more information on patent search techniques?
You can find more information on patent search techniques through resources like the USPTO Public Search Facility, Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs), and online tutorials provided by the USPTO[1].
Cited Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- USPTO - Certificate Extending Patent Term: https://www.uspto.gov/sites/default/files/web/offices/pac/dapp/opla/term/certs/4105783.pdf
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset: https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- U.S. Department of Commerce - U.S. Patent and Trademark Office: https://www.commerce.gov/bureaus-and-offices/uspto
- Justia - US Patent for Therapeutic treatment of dry skin: https://patents.justia.com/patent/4105783
