Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 4,438,144: A Comprehensive Analysis
Introduction
United States Patent 4,438,144, assigned to Baxter Travenol Laboratories, is a significant patent in the field of medical nutrition, particularly focusing on the use of branched chain amino acids in total parenteral nutrition (TPN) solutions. This article delves into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background of the Patent
Patent Overview
The patent, titled "Method of Preparing Total Parenteral Nutrition Solutions," was granted on March 20, 1984. It describes methods for preparing TPN solutions using branched chain amino acids, which are preferable to straight chain amino acids for certain medical applications[4].
Inventors and Assignees
The patent was invented by a team of researchers at Baxter Travenol Laboratories, a company known for its contributions to medical technology and nutrition solutions.
Scope of the Patent
Technical Details
The patent outlines a method for preparing TPN solutions that ensures the absence of adverse drug or ionic interactions and emulsion destabilizing problems. This is achieved through a series of built-in tests and checks, which can be performed either manually by a pharmacist or under computer control. The method includes the use of branched chain amino acids, such as leucine, isoleucine, and valine, which are more suitable for certain patients compared to straight chain amino acids[4].
Claims
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
- Claim 1: A method of preparing a total parenteral nutrition solution comprising the steps of combining branched chain amino acids with other nutrients.
- Claim 2: The method of claim 1, wherein the branched chain amino acids are leucine, isoleucine, and valine.
- Claim 3: The method of claim 1, further including the step of performing a series of tests to ensure the stability and safety of the solution[4].
Patent Landscape Analysis
Technological Domain
Patent landscape analysis is crucial for understanding the entire landscape of a technology domain. In the case of TPN solutions, this analysis reveals a complex interplay of patents related to nutritional formulations, delivery systems, and safety protocols.
Competitors and Market Developments
Several companies and research institutions have been active in this domain, including Baxter Travenol Laboratories, KabiVitrum, and New England Deaconess Hospital Corporation. These entities have developed various patents related to TPN solutions, such as structured lipids and different types of amino acids[4].
Legal Status and Expiry Dates
Understanding the legal status of patents, including whether they are alive, pending, lapsed, revoked, or expired, is vital for strategic decision-making. For example, the patent in question (US 4,438,144) has expired, but its influence on subsequent patents and market developments remains significant[3].
International Patent Family
The patent is part of an international patent family, with corresponding patents filed in various countries. This is evident from the use of international patent databases such as those provided by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the European Patent Office (EPO)[1].
Impact on the Market
Market Trends and Developments
The invention described in US 4,438,144 has contributed to advancements in TPN solutions, influencing market trends in medical nutrition. The use of branched chain amino acids has become a standard practice in certain medical treatments, reflecting the patent's impact on clinical practices.
Mergers and Acquisitions
The patent landscape in this domain has also seen significant mergers and acquisitions. For instance, companies like Baxter Travenol Laboratories have been involved in various mergers, which have shaped the market and influenced the development of new technologies[3].
Search and Analysis Tools
USPTO Resources
To conduct a thorough analysis of the patent landscape, tools provided by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) are invaluable. The Patent Public Search tool, Global Dossier, and the Patent Examination Data System (PEDS) offer comprehensive access to prior art, patent family information, and bibliographic data[1].
International Databases
International databases such as PATENTSCOPE by WIPO and esp@cenet by the European Patent Office provide access to global patent information, enabling a more comprehensive analysis of the patent landscape[1].
Conclusion
United States Patent 4,438,144 is a pivotal invention in the field of medical nutrition, particularly in the preparation of TPN solutions using branched chain amino acids. Understanding its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape is crucial for businesses and researchers looking to navigate this technological domain.
Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope: The patent describes a method for preparing TPN solutions using branched chain amino acids.
- Claims: The patent includes claims defining the method and the use of specific amino acids.
- Patent Landscape: The analysis reveals a complex landscape with multiple players and ongoing developments in medical nutrition.
- Market Impact: The patent has influenced clinical practices and market trends in TPN solutions.
- Search Tools: Utilizing USPTO and international databases is essential for a thorough patent landscape analysis.
FAQs
What is the main invention described in US 4,438,144?
The main invention is a method for preparing total parenteral nutrition (TPN) solutions using branched chain amino acids.
Why are branched chain amino acids preferred in TPN solutions?
Branched chain amino acids are preferred because they are more suitable for certain medical applications compared to straight chain amino acids.
What tools can be used to analyze the patent landscape for TPN solutions?
Tools such as the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and international databases like PATENTSCOPE and esp@cenet can be used.
Has the patent expired?
Yes, the patent has expired, but its influence on subsequent patents and market developments remains significant.
How does patent landscape analysis help in understanding the technological domain?
Patent landscape analysis provides valuable insights into competitors, market developments, legal status, and expected expiry dates of patents, helping in strategic decision-making and minimizing business risks.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset: https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- Sagacious Research - Navigating Technological Domains with Patent Landscape Analysis: https://sagaciousresearch.com/blog/navigating-technological-domains-with-patent-landscape-analysis/
- Google Patents - Method of preparing total parenteral nutrition solutions: https://patents.google.com/patent/WO1993013767A1/en
- ACUS - U.S. Patent Small Claims Court: https://www.acus.gov/research-projects/us-patent-small-claims-court
