Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 4,602,017
Introduction
United States Patent 4,602,017, titled "Substituted aromatic compounds," is a significant patent that has contributed to the field of organic chemistry, particularly in the synthesis and application of triazine compounds. This article delves into the details of the patent, its claims, and the broader patent landscape it inhabits.
Patent Overview
The patent, granted in 1986, describes a class of substituted aromatic compounds, specifically focusing on triazine derivatives. These compounds are characterized by their structural formula and include various substitutions that enhance their chemical and pharmaceutical properties[1].
Structural Formula and Compounds
The patent specifies compounds of the formula (III), which includes a triazine ring with specific substitutions. For instance, the R6 group can be chlorine, bromine, iodine, or other halogens. This flexibility in substitution allows for the creation of a variety of compounds with different properties[1].
Claims
The patent includes multiple claims that define the scope of the invention. Here are some key aspects:
Independent Claims
- The patent claims cover the specific chemical structures of the triazine compounds, including the various substitutions.
- It also claims methods for preparing these compounds, which involve specific chemical reactions and conditions[1].
Dependent Claims
- These claims further specify the types of substitutions, the conditions under which the compounds are prepared, and the properties of the resulting compounds.
- For example, the patent claims compounds where the R6 group is a dichlorophenyl group, which is particularly relevant for the synthesis of lamotrigine, an antiepileptic drug[1].
Patent Scope and Metrics
The scope of a patent is crucial in determining its impact and validity. Metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count can provide insights into the breadth and clarity of the patent.
Independent Claim Length
Research has shown that the length of independent claims can be a metric for measuring patent scope. Shorter independent claims often indicate narrower and more focused inventions, which can be associated with higher grant rates and shorter examination processes[3].
Independent Claim Count
The number of independent claims also reflects the complexity and breadth of the invention. Patents with fewer independent claims tend to have a more defined scope and are less likely to be overly broad[3].
Application and Significance
The compounds described in this patent have significant pharmaceutical applications. One of the most notable is lamotrigine, a drug used to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder. The process for preparing lamotrigine and its analogues is detailed in the patent, highlighting its importance in medical research and treatment[4].
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape surrounding US 4,602,017 includes several related patents and publications:
Related Patents
- Other patents, such as WO2003078407A1, describe new and efficient processes for the preparation of lamotrigine and related triazine compounds. These patents build upon the foundational work described in US 4,602,017[4].
Patent Maintenance and Forward Citations
- The maintenance payments and forward citations of a patent can indicate its value and influence. Patents that are well-maintained and frequently cited are generally considered more valuable and impactful[3].
Legal and Policy Considerations
The legal and policy environment around patents is evolving, with ongoing discussions about patent quality and the need for specialized courts.
Small Claims Patent Court
- There have been proposals and studies on the establishment of a small claims patent court to address issues related to patent litigation costs and complexity. This could potentially affect how patents like US 4,602,017 are enforced and litigated[5].
Industry Expert Insights
Industry experts and legal practitioners often provide valuable insights into the implications of patents like US 4,602,017.
"The scope of a patent is critical in determining its validity and enforceability. Metrics such as independent claim length and count can help in assessing the breadth and clarity of the patent," - Alan Marco, Former Chief Economist for the USPTO[3].
Statistics and Trends
- Research has shown that patents with narrower claims at publication have a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process. For example, a study by Marco, Sarnoff, and deGrazia found that patents with shorter independent claims were more likely to be granted quickly[3].
Conclusion
United States Patent 4,602,017 is a pivotal patent in the field of organic chemistry, particularly in the synthesis of triazine compounds. Its claims and scope define a specific class of compounds with significant pharmaceutical applications. Understanding the metrics and trends in patent scope, as well as the broader legal and policy landscape, is essential for appreciating the impact of this patent.
Key Takeaways
- Structural Formula: The patent describes compounds with a triazine ring and specific substitutions.
- Claims: The patent includes claims for the compounds and methods of preparation.
- Patent Scope: Metrics like independent claim length and count are important for assessing patent scope.
- Applications: The compounds have significant pharmaceutical applications, including the synthesis of lamotrigine.
- Legal Considerations: The patent landscape is influenced by ongoing discussions about patent quality and specialized courts.
FAQs
-
What is the main subject of United States Patent 4,602,017?
- The main subject is substituted aromatic compounds, specifically triazine derivatives.
-
What are some of the key substitutions mentioned in the patent?
- The patent mentions substitutions such as chlorine, bromine, iodine, and other halogens.
-
What is the significance of lamotrigine in relation to this patent?
- Lamotrigine is an antiepileptic drug that can be synthesized using the methods described in the patent.
-
How do metrics like independent claim length affect patent scope?
- Shorter independent claims often indicate narrower and more focused inventions, associated with higher grant rates and shorter examination processes.
-
What is the current status of discussions on a small claims patent court?
- There have been studies and public comments on the feasibility and structure of a small claims patent court, but no court has been established yet.
