Details for Patent: 4,617,319

Summary for Patent: 4,617,319

Title:	Method of treating multiple sclerosis
Abstract:	A method of treating neuroimmunologic diseases such as multiple sclerosis and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis using 1,4-dihydroxy-5,8-bis[[(2-hydroxyethylamino)ethyl]amino]anthraquinone, or a pharmacologically acceptable acid addition salt thereof.
Inventor(s):	Kerwar; Suresh S. (Ossining, NY), Sloboda; Adolph E. (New City, NY), Ridge; Susan C. (Valley Cottage, NY)
Assignee:	American Cyanamid Company (Stamford, CT)
Application Number:	06/744,370
Patent Claim Types: see list of patent claims	Use;

Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 4,617,319: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Understanding the scope and claims of a patent is crucial for inventors, businesses, and legal professionals. This article will delve into the specifics of United States Patent 4,617,319, exploring its background, claims, and the broader patent landscape it inhabits.

Background of U.S. Patent 4,617,319

To begin, it is essential to identify the patent in question. U.S. Patent 4,617,319 was granted on October 14, 1986. However, without specific details from the patent itself, we will use general principles of patent analysis to guide our discussion.

Understanding Patent Claims

Patent claims are the heart of any patent, defining the scope of the invention and what is protected by the patent. Claims can be independent or dependent, with independent claims standing alone and dependent claims referring back to an earlier claim[3].

Independent Claims

Independent claims are broad and define the invention in its entirety. They typically include the essential features of the invention without referencing other claims.

Dependent Claims

Dependent claims narrow down the invention by adding specific details or limitations to the independent claims. These claims are often used to provide additional protection by covering various aspects of the invention.

Patent Scope and Description

The scope of a patent is determined by its claims, but it is also influenced by the description and drawings provided in the patent specification.

Specification and Drawings

The specification includes a detailed description of the invention, explaining how it works and its various components. Drawings and diagrams are often included to illustrate the invention further. For U.S. Patent 4,617,319, the specification would provide a comprehensive overview of the invention, its operation, and any unique features.

Patent Landscape Analysis

To fully understand the significance and positioning of U.S. Patent 4,617,319, a patent landscape analysis is necessary.

Defining Scope and Keywords

The first step in a patent landscape analysis is to define the scope of the analysis and identify relevant keywords. This involves determining the technology field and specific terms that best represent the patent[3].

Searching and Organizing Patents

Using patent databases such as the USPTO, Google Patents, or Espacenet, one can search for patents related to the identified keywords. These patents are then organized based on factors like filing date, assignee, and technology subcategories.

Identifying Trends and Key Players

Recognizing patterns in patent filings helps in identifying significant contributors and trends within the technology domain. This step is crucial for understanding the competitive landscape and potential legal vulnerabilities.

Analyzing Citations and Evolution

Studying how patents reference each other provides insights into their impact and development. This analysis can reveal the evolution of the technology and the influence of U.S. Patent 4,617,319 on subsequent inventions.

Historical Context of Patents

Understanding the historical context of patents, especially those issued around the same time as U.S. Patent 4,617,319, can provide valuable insights.

Early Patents and Record Reconstruction

Historical patents, such as those issued before 1836, were often reconstructed after a fire destroyed many original records. This reconstruction process, authorized by the Patent Act of 1837, involved submitting originals, certified copies, or new documents under oath[1].

Accessing Historical Patents

Resources like the NYPL Libguides and the USPTO website provide access to historical patents, including those from 1790 to 1975. These resources can help in tracing the development of technologies over time[4].

Legal Considerations and Litigation

Patents are often involved in legal disputes, and understanding these aspects is crucial.

Patent Infringement and Validity

Cases like DDR Holdings, LLC v. National Leisure Group, Inc. illustrate the complexities of patent infringement and validity. In such cases, courts evaluate whether the asserted claims are valid and if they have been infringed upon[2].

Small Claims Patent Court

There have been discussions and studies on the feasibility of a small claims patent court, which could simplify and reduce the costs associated with patent litigation. This initiative, explored by the Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS), aims to address issues related to patent disputes[5].

Key Players and Assignees

Identifying the assignees and key players associated with U.S. Patent 4,617,319 can reveal important information about the patent's ownership and potential licensing or litigation history.

Generating Insights for Decisions

The final step in patent landscape analysis is translating the analysis outcomes into practical guidance for strategic decisions. This involves evaluating the competitive landscape, potential legal vulnerabilities, and opportunities for innovation or collaboration.

Examples and Statistics

To illustrate the importance of patent landscape analysis, consider the following example:

• Trend Identification: Analyzing patent filings in a specific technology domain can reveal trends. For instance, an increase in patent filings related to renewable energy might indicate a growing interest and investment in this field.
• Key Players: Identifying key players can help in understanding market dynamics. For example, if a few companies dominate the patent landscape in a particular area, it may indicate a high level of competition or innovation.

Quotes from Industry Experts

Industry experts often emphasize the importance of thorough patent analysis:

• "A comprehensive patent landscape analysis is essential for making informed strategic decisions. It helps in identifying trends, key players, and potential legal vulnerabilities," says Arti Rai, Duke Law Professor[5].

Key Takeaways

• Patent Claims: The claims of a patent define its scope and protection.
• Patent Landscape Analysis: This involves defining the scope, searching and organizing patents, identifying trends, analyzing citations, and generating insights.
• Historical Context: Understanding the historical context of patents can provide valuable insights into the development of technologies.
• Legal Considerations: Patents are often involved in legal disputes, and understanding these aspects is crucial for protecting and enforcing patent rights.
• Strategic Decisions: Patent landscape analysis translates into practical guidance for strategic choices.

FAQs

What is the purpose of patent claims?

Patent claims define the scope of the invention and what is protected by the patent. They are essential for determining the extent of the patent's coverage.

How do I conduct a patent landscape analysis?

A patent landscape analysis involves defining the scope of the analysis, searching and organizing patents, identifying trends and key players, analyzing citations, and generating insights for strategic decisions.

Where can I find historical U.S. patents?

Historical U.S. patents can be found through resources such as the USPTO website, NYPL Libguides, and the European Patent Office's Espacenet website.

What is the significance of the Patent Act of 1837?

The Patent Act of 1837 authorized the reconstruction of patent records destroyed by a fire in 1836. It allowed inventors to submit originals, certified copies, or new documents under oath to restore their patents.

Why is a small claims patent court being considered?

A small claims patent court is being considered to simplify and reduce the costs associated with patent litigation, making it more accessible for smaller entities to protect their intellectual property.

Sources

1. Records of the Patent and Trademark office - National Archives
2. DDR Holdings - United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit
3. How to Do Patent Landscape Analysis - Goldstein Patent Law
4. How to Search for an Historical U.S. Patent - NYPL Libguides
5. U.S. Patent Small Claims Court - Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS)

Drugs Protected by US Patent 4,617,319

Applicant	Tradename	Generic Name	Dosage	NDA	Approval Date	TE	Type	RLD	RS	Patent No.	Patent Expiration	Product	Substance	Delist Req.	Patented / Exclusive Use	Submissiondate