Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 4,837,208
Introduction
United States Patent 4,837,208, titled "Treatment of human viral infections," was granted on June 6, 1989, to inventors Rideout et al. This patent is significant in the context of medical treatments, particularly for viral infections such as AIDS. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
The patent 4,837,208 describes a method for treating human viral infections, specifically focusing on the treatment of AIDS or individuals infected with or carrying the AIDS virus. The invention involves the use of certain compounds to inhibit the replication of the virus.
Scope of the Patent
Medical Application
The scope of this patent is primarily within the medical field, targeting the treatment of viral infections. It addresses a critical need in the late 1980s for effective treatments against AIDS, a disease that was then relatively new and highly lethal.
Compounds and Methods
The patent details specific compounds and their methods of use in treating viral infections. This includes the administration of these compounds to patients, the dosages, and the expected outcomes. The scope is narrow in that it focuses on a specific class of compounds but broad in its potential application to various viral infections beyond just AIDS[2][5].
Claims of the Patent
Independent Claims
The independent claims of the patent define the core invention and are crucial for understanding what is protected. These claims typically include:
- The specific compounds used for treatment.
- The methods of administering these compounds.
- The dosages and treatment regimens.
For example, Claim 1 might specify a particular compound and its use in treating AIDS, while Claim 2 might detail the method of administration and dosage[2].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims build upon the independent claims and provide additional details or variations. These claims might include:
- Different formulations of the compounds.
- Alternative methods of administration.
- Specific patient groups or conditions where the treatment is particularly effective.
These dependent claims help to further define the scope of protection and ensure that variations of the core invention are also covered[2].
Patent Landscape
Prior Art and Related Patents
To understand the patent landscape, it is essential to look at prior art and related patents. The Common Citation Document (CCD) application, for instance, consolidates prior art cited by multiple patent offices, helping to identify similar inventions and their differences[1].
Global Patent Family
The Global Dossier service allows users to see the patent family for a specific application, including related applications filed at participating IP Offices. This helps in understanding how the invention is protected globally and any variations or additional claims in different jurisdictions[1].
Competing Patents
Analyzing competing patents in the field of viral infection treatments can reveal gaps or opportunities. For example, if other patents cover different compounds or methods, this could indicate areas where the current patent does not provide adequate protection. Patent analytics tools, such as those described by Schwegman, can help categorize and analyze large numbers of patent claims to identify these gaps and opportunities[3].
Impact and Relevance
Historical Context
At the time of its issuance, this patent was significant due to the urgent need for effective AIDS treatments. The compounds and methods described provided a crucial advancement in medical science.
Current Relevance
While the patent has expired, its legacy continues in the form of subsequent research and development in antiviral therapies. Understanding the scope and claims of this patent can provide insights into the evolution of viral infection treatments and the ongoing efforts to combat diseases like AIDS.
Analytical Tools and Resources
Claim Coverage Matrix
Using a Claim Coverage Matrix, as described by Schwegman, can help in understanding which patents and claims are actively protecting the intellectual property related to viral infection treatments. This tool categorizes patents by claims and scope concepts, making it easier to identify gaps in coverage and future design opportunities[3].
Public Search Facilities
Resources like the USPTO Public Search Facility and Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs) provide access to patent and trademark information, including tools for searching and analyzing patent claims. These facilities are invaluable for conducting thorough patent searches and understanding the broader patent landscape[1].
Conclusion
United States Patent 4,837,208 is a landmark patent in the field of viral infection treatments, particularly for AIDS. Understanding its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape is crucial for both historical context and current research and development.
Key Takeaways
- Scope and Claims: The patent focuses on specific compounds and methods for treating viral infections, with both independent and dependent claims defining the core invention.
- Patent Landscape: Analyzing prior art, global patent families, and competing patents helps in understanding the protection and opportunities.
- Impact and Relevance: The patent was historically significant and continues to influence current antiviral therapies.
- Analytical Tools: Resources like Claim Coverage Matrix and public search facilities are essential for thorough analysis.
FAQs
Q: What is the main focus of United States Patent 4,837,208?
A: The main focus is on the treatment of human viral infections, specifically AIDS, using certain compounds.
Q: How can one analyze the patent landscape for this invention?
A: By using tools like the Common Citation Document (CCD) and Global Dossier, and analyzing competing patents in the field.
Q: What is the significance of the Claim Coverage Matrix in patent analytics?
A: It helps in categorizing patents by claims and scope concepts, identifying gaps in coverage, and highlighting future design opportunities.
Q: Where can one access detailed information about this patent and similar patents?
A: Resources include the USPTO Public Search Facility, Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs), and international patent databases.
Q: Is the patent still in effect?
A: No, the patent has expired, but its legacy continues to influence current medical research and development.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents - USPTO https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- Justia - US Patent for Treatment of human viral infections Patent (Patent 4837208) https://patents.justia.com/patent/4837208
- Schwegman - Patent Analytics | Intellectual Property Law https://www.slwip.com/services/patent-analytics/
- U.S. Department of Commerce - U.S. Patent and Trademark Office | U.S. Department of Commerce https://www.commerce.gov/bureaus-and-offices/uspto
- Berkeley Law - Inventorship and Ownership - Berkeley Law https://www.law.berkeley.edu/files/bclt_PatentLaw_Inventorship_and_Ownership.ppt
