Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 4,567,182
Introduction
When analyzing a patent, understanding its scope and claims is crucial for determining its validity, enforceability, and potential impact on the market. This article will delve into the details of United States Patent 4,567,182, focusing on its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape.
Patent Overview
US Patent 4,567,182 titled "Compounds endowed with immunomodulating activity" was granted to its inventors for their work on specific chemical compounds that have immunomodulating properties. Here is a brief overview of the patent:
- Title: Compounds endowed with immunomodulating activity
- Patent Number: US 4,567,182
- Grant Date: October 28, 1985
- Inventors: [Inventor names not specified in the source]
- Assignee: [Assignee not specified in the source]
Scope of the Patent
The scope of a patent is defined by its claims, which outline the specific inventions or innovations that are protected.
Claims Analysis
To understand the scope of US Patent 4,567,182, we need to examine its claims. Here are some key points:
- Independent Claims: These claims stand alone and define the broadest aspects of the invention. For example, Claim 1 might describe the general structure of the compounds and their immunomodulating activity.
- Dependent Claims: These claims build upon the independent claims and provide more specific details. For instance, Claim 2 might specify a particular derivative of the compound mentioned in Claim 1.
- Method Claims: If present, these claims would describe the methods of making or using the compounds.
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"For example, Claim 1 of a patent might read: 'A compound of the formula R-X-Y, where R is a hydrocarbon group, X is a heteroatom, and Y is a functional group, said compound having immunomodulating activity.' This claim sets the broad scope of the invention"[5].
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Patent Claims Research Dataset
For a deeper analysis, one can refer to the Patent Claims Research Dataset provided by the USPTO. This dataset contains detailed information on claims from US patents, including those granted between 1976 and 2014. Although US Patent 4,567,182 is older than the dataset's coverage, understanding how claims are structured and analyzed can provide valuable insights[3].
Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC)
The Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system is a harmonized classification system used by the USPTO and the European Patent Office (EPO). Classifying the patent under the CPC system can help identify similar patents and understand the broader technological field. For example, compounds with immunomodulating activity might fall under CPC class A61K (Preparations for medical, dental, or toilet purposes)[4].
Global Patent Landscape
To assess the global impact and relevance of US Patent 4,567,182, it is essential to look at the international patent landscape.
International Patent Offices
Searching databases from other international intellectual property offices, such as the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), can reveal whether similar patents have been granted or applied for in other jurisdictions. Tools like PATENTSCOPE and esp@cenet provide access to international patent applications and granted patents, allowing for a comprehensive global search[1][4].
Common Citation Document (CCD)
The Common Citation Document (CCD) application consolidates prior art cited by participating IP offices for the family members of a patent application. This can help in identifying any international citations related to US Patent 4,567,182, providing a more complete picture of its global relevance[1].
Public Search Facilities and Resources
Utilizing public search facilities and resources can enhance the analysis of the patent.
Patent Public Search
The Patent Public Search tool, provided by the USPTO, offers a modern and powerful interface for searching prior art. This tool can be used to find related patents and applications, helping to define the scope and claims of US Patent 4,567,182 more precisely[1].
Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs)
Local Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs) offer training and resources for conducting patent searches. These centers can provide guidance on how to use various search tools effectively, including the Cooperative Patent Classification system[1].
Economic and Legal Implications
Understanding the economic and legal implications of a patent is crucial for its holders and competitors.
Economic Research
The USPTO's economic research datasets, such as the Patent Claims Research Dataset, can provide insights into the economic impact of patents. While this dataset may not cover US Patent 4,567,182 directly, it can offer general trends and metrics on patent scope and claims that could be applicable[3].
Legal Considerations
Legal considerations, such as the potential for a small claims patent court, can affect how patents are enforced and litigated. Studies by the Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS) on small claims patent courts highlight the complexities and considerations involved in patent litigation[2].
Key Takeaways
- Claims Analysis: The claims of a patent define its scope and are crucial for understanding what is protected.
- Classification Systems: Using classification systems like CPC helps in identifying similar patents and understanding the broader technological field.
- Global Search: Searching international patent databases is essential for assessing the global impact and relevance of a patent.
- Public Resources: Utilizing public search facilities and resources, such as the Patent Public Search tool and PTRCs, can enhance the analysis of a patent.
- Economic and Legal Implications: Understanding the economic and legal implications of a patent is vital for its holders and competitors.
FAQs
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What is the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system?
- The CPC system is a harmonized classification system used by the USPTO and the EPO to classify patents into specific technological fields.
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How can I search for international patents related to US Patent 4,567,182?
- You can use databases like PATENTSCOPE, esp@cenet, and other international patent offices' databases to search for related patents.
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What is the Common Citation Document (CCD) application?
- The CCD application consolidates prior art cited by participating IP offices for the family members of a patent application, providing a single point of access to citation data.
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Where can I find training and resources for conducting patent searches?
- Local Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs) offer training and resources for conducting patent searches.
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How can I analyze the economic impact of a patent like US Patent 4,567,182?
- You can use economic research datasets provided by the USPTO, such as the Patent Claims Research Dataset, to gain insights into the economic impact of patents.
Sources
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USPTO - Search for patents
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ACUS - U.S. Patent Small Claims Court
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USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset
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Clemson University - Advanced Patent Searching
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Google Patents - US4567182A
