United States Patent 4,603,146: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 4,603,146, titled "Methods for retarding the effects of aging of the skin," is a significant patent in the field of dermatology and skincare. This patent, issued on July 29, 1986, outlines methods and compositions for improving skin quality and retarding the effects of skin aging. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background and Prior Art
The patent is a continuation of earlier applications, specifically Ser. No. 610,711 and Ser. No. 297,388, which were filed in 1984 and 1981, respectively. These earlier applications laid the groundwork for the methods and compositions described in US 4,603,146[5].
Scope of the Patent
The patent focuses on methods using vitamin A acid (retinoids) to improve skin quality and retard the effects of aging. The invention addresses various aspects of skin aging, including the impairment of differentiation of epidermal epithelial cells and the loss of collagen fibers, as well as abnormal changes in elastic fibers.
Key Components
- Vitamin A Acid (Retinoids): The patent highlights the use of retinoids as a primary active ingredient. Retinoids are known for their ability to promote cell differentiation and reduce the signs of aging.
- Skin Conditions: The methods described are aimed at treating various skin conditions associated with aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and skin discoloration.
- Application Methods: The patent includes details on how to apply these retinoid-based compositions, which can be in the form of creams, gels, or other topical formulations.
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
Independent Claims
- Claim 1 describes a method for retarding the effects of aging of the skin using a composition containing vitamin A acid.
- Claim 2 specifies the concentration of vitamin A acid in the composition.
- Claim 3 outlines the method of application, including the frequency and duration of treatment[5].
Dependent Claims
- These claims further detail the composition, including the presence of additional ingredients such as moisturizers and stabilizers.
- They also specify the types of skin conditions that can be treated using the methods described.
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
The patent landscape in the field of skincare and anti-aging treatments is extensive. Other patents, such as US 5728732 A, also focus on skin treatments using salicylic acid esters and retinoids, indicating a broader interest in combining different active ingredients to achieve optimal results[2].
Global Dossier and International Patent Family
Using tools like the Global Dossier provided by the USPTO, one can see the patent family for this specific application, including related applications filed at participating IP Offices. This helps in understanding the global reach and protection of similar inventions[1].
Public Search and Databases
Resources such as the Patent Public Search tool and the Publication Site for Issued and Published Sequences (PSIPS) can be used to find and analyze related patents and sequences. These tools are essential for conducting thorough patent searches and ensuring that new inventions do not infringe on existing patents[1].
Economic and Legal Implications
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset provides detailed information on claims from U.S. patents, including those related to skincare and anti-aging treatments. This dataset can be used to analyze trends and the scope of patent claims in this field, offering insights into the economic and legal implications of such patents[4].
Small Claims Patent Court
The concept of a small claims patent court, as studied by the Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS), could impact the enforcement and litigation of patents like US 4,603,146. Such a court would provide a more streamlined and cost-effective way to resolve patent disputes, which could be particularly beneficial for smaller entities in the skincare industry[3].
Practical Applications and Impact
Clinical Use
The methods described in the patent have been widely adopted in clinical practice. Dermatologists and skincare professionals use retinoid-based treatments to address various skin aging issues, underscoring the practical impact of this patent.
Market Influence
The patent has influenced the development of numerous skincare products containing retinoids. These products are popular in the market due to their effectiveness in reducing signs of aging, thereby contributing to the growth of the skincare industry.
Key Takeaways
- Invention Scope: The patent focuses on methods using vitamin A acid to retard skin aging.
- Claims: The patent includes independent and dependent claims defining the composition and application methods.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape of skincare and anti-aging treatments, with related patents and international filings.
- Economic and Legal Implications: The patent has significant economic and legal implications, including the potential for litigation and the influence on market products.
- Practical Applications: The methods described have been widely adopted in clinical practice and the skincare industry.
FAQs
Q: What is the primary active ingredient in the methods described in US 4,603,146?
A: The primary active ingredient is vitamin A acid (retinoids).
Q: What are the main skin conditions addressed by this patent?
A: The patent addresses various skin conditions associated with aging, including wrinkles, fine lines, and skin discoloration.
Q: How can one search for related patents in this field?
A: One can use tools like the Patent Public Search tool and the Global Dossier provided by the USPTO to search for related patents.
Q: What is the significance of the Patent Claims Research Dataset in this context?
A: The dataset provides detailed information on claims from U.S. patents, helping to analyze trends and the scope of patent claims in the skincare and anti-aging field.
Q: How might a small claims patent court impact the enforcement of patents like US 4,603,146?
A: A small claims patent court could provide a more streamlined and cost-effective way to resolve patent disputes, benefiting smaller entities in the skincare industry.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- US Patent US5728732A: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/patent/US-5728732-A
- ACUS - U.S. Patent Small Claims Court: https://www.acus.gov/research-projects/us-patent-small-claims-court
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset: https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- Google Patents - US4603146A: https://patents.google.com/patent/US4603146A/en
