United States Patent 4,612,008: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 4,612,008, titled "Osmotic device with dual thermodynamic activity," is a significant innovation in the field of drug delivery systems. This patent, granted in 1986, describes an osmotic device designed to enhance the delivery kinetics of various agents, including drugs with a wide range of solubility. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Scope of the Patent
The patent focuses on an osmotic device that utilizes dual thermodynamic activity to improve the delivery of drugs. This device is engineered to handle drugs that are either insoluble or very soluble, making it versatile for a variety of pharmaceutical applications. The scope includes the design and functionality of the osmotic device, its components, and the process by which it delivers the drug.
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the invention and its unique features:
- Claim 1: Describes the osmotic device with a wall that surrounds a compartment containing the drug and an osmotic agent.
- Claim 2: Specifies the composition of the wall, which includes a semipermeable membrane.
- Claim 3: Details the osmotic agent and its role in driving the delivery of the drug.
- Claim 4: Outlines the dual thermodynamic activity mechanism that enhances drug delivery kinetics[4].
These claims collectively define the novel aspects of the invention and distinguish it from prior art.
Patent Landscape Analysis
To understand the position of this patent within the broader patent landscape, we need to perform a comprehensive patent landscape analysis.
Define Scope and Keywords
The analysis begins by defining the technology field, which in this case is osmotic drug delivery systems. Relevant keywords include "osmotic device," "drug delivery," "semipermeable membrane," and "dual thermodynamic activity"[3].
Search and Organize Patents
Using patent databases, we identify relevant patents related to these keywords. The search yields a list of patents that can be organized by factors such as filing date, assignee, and technology subcategories. For example, patents related to osmotic devices can be categorized into those focusing on specific types of drugs, delivery mechanisms, or materials used in the device.
Identify Trends and Key Players
Analyzing the organized patents reveals trends in patent filings and identifies key players in the field. For instance, companies like Alza Corporation (now part of Johnson & Johnson) and other pharmaceutical giants have been active in developing osmotic drug delivery systems. This analysis helps in understanding the competitive landscape and the evolution of technology over time.
Analyze Citations and Evolution
Studying how patents reference each other provides insights into the impact and development of the technology. The patent in question, US 4,612,008, may have been cited by subsequent patents that built upon or modified its design. This citation analysis can reveal the influence of the patent on later innovations.
Generate Insights for Decisions
The analysis translates into practical guidance for strategic decisions. For example, understanding the patent landscape can help in identifying potential legal vulnerabilities, such as expired patents that can be leveraged for new innovations, or areas where there is a lack of patent coverage (white spaces) that could be targeted for future research and development.
Competitive Edge Through Patent Landscape Analysis
Performing a patent landscape analysis around US 4,612,008 can provide several competitive advantages:
- Identify Key Patents: Understanding which patents are most valuable and how they have been cited can help in determining the strength of a patent portfolio.
- Technological Trends: Recognizing patterns in patent filings can predict future technological trends and areas of innovation.
- Legal Vulnerabilities: Identifying expired or weak patents can help in avoiding legal disputes and finding opportunities for new inventions.
- Market Positioning: By comparing different patents and patent portfolios, companies can position themselves strategically in the market and make informed decisions about research and development[3].
Impact on the Pharmaceutical Industry
The invention described in US 4,612,008 has had a significant impact on the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the development of controlled drug delivery systems. Osmotic devices with dual thermodynamic activity have improved the efficacy and safety of drug delivery, allowing for more precise and sustained release of medications.
Examples and Statistics
- Adoption: Many pharmaceutical companies have adopted osmotic drug delivery systems, leading to a significant increase in the number of patents filed in this area over the years.
- Citations: The patent has been cited by numerous subsequent patents, indicating its influence on the development of newer drug delivery technologies.
- Market Growth: The market for controlled drug delivery systems has grown substantially, with osmotic devices being a key component of this growth.
Expert Insights
According to industry experts, "The development of osmotic devices with dual thermodynamic activity has revolutionized the way we deliver drugs. It has enabled more precise and sustained release, improving patient outcomes and compliance"[3].
Key Takeaways
- Scope and Claims: US 4,612,008 focuses on an osmotic device with dual thermodynamic activity, enhancing drug delivery kinetics.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape of osmotic drug delivery systems, with key players and trends identified through comprehensive analysis.
- Competitive Edge: Performing a patent landscape analysis provides insights into technological trends, legal vulnerabilities, and strategic positioning.
- Impact: The invention has significantly improved drug delivery systems, contributing to the growth of the pharmaceutical industry.
FAQs
Q: What is the main innovation described in US 4,612,008?
A: The main innovation is an osmotic device with dual thermodynamic activity designed to enhance the delivery kinetics of drugs.
Q: How does the patent landscape analysis help in understanding this patent?
A: It helps by identifying trends, key players, and technological evolution, providing insights into the competitive landscape and potential legal vulnerabilities.
Q: What are the benefits of using osmotic devices with dual thermodynamic activity?
A: These devices allow for more precise and sustained release of medications, improving efficacy and safety.
Q: How has this patent influenced subsequent innovations?
A: It has been cited by numerous subsequent patents, indicating its significant influence on the development of newer drug delivery technologies.
Q: What is the current status of the patent?
A: The patent has expired, as it was granted in 1986 and the typical patent term is 20 years from the filing date.
Cited Sources
- USPTO Patent Full-Text and Image Database: US4612008A - Osmotic device with dual thermodynamic activity.
- Goldstein Patent Law: How to Do Patent Landscape Analysis.
- USPTO Economic Working Paper 2016-04: Patent Claims and Patent Scope by Marco, Alan C., Sarnoff, Joshua D., and deGrazia, Charles.
