Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 4,946,687: A Detailed Analysis
Introduction
United States Patent 4,946,687, granted on August 7, 1990, is an example of an early patent in the field of computer technology. To analyze its scope and claims, and to understand its place in the patent landscape, we need to delve into the specifics of the patent, the context of its time, and the broader implications for patent law and practice.
Background of the Patent
Patent Overview
The patent in question, 4,946,687, is titled "Method and Apparatus for Controlling the Distribution of Data in a Distributed Data Processing System." This patent addresses a method and apparatus for managing data distribution in a distributed computing environment, a concept that was innovative and critical in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Technological Context
In the late 1980s, distributed computing was becoming increasingly important as networks and interconnected systems began to proliferate. The need for efficient data management and distribution was a significant challenge, and this patent aimed to address this issue.
Claims Analysis
Independent and Dependent Claims
The patent includes both independent and dependent claims. Independent claims stand alone and define the invention, while dependent claims refer back to and further limit the independent claims.
- Independent Claims: These claims define the core of the invention. For example, Claim 1 might describe the overall method or apparatus for controlling data distribution, including the key components and steps involved.
- Dependent Claims: These claims build upon the independent claims by adding additional limitations or features. For instance, Claim 2 might specify a particular algorithm used in the data distribution process, while Claim 3 might describe a specific hardware configuration.
Claim Construction
The construction of claims is crucial for determining the scope of the patent. Each claim must be clear, concise, and definite to avoid ambiguity and potential invalidation. The claims in this patent would have been crafted to ensure they meet the requirements of patentability, including novelty, non-obviousness, and utility.
Patent Eligibility and Subject Matter
Historical Context of Patent Eligibility
At the time of the patent's issuance, the criteria for patent eligibility were less stringent compared to today. However, the patent still had to meet the basic requirements of being a novel, non-obvious, and useful invention.
Modern Implications
Under current patent law, particularly with the updates from the USPTO in 2024, the focus is on whether the claimed invention integrates a judicial exception into a practical application. For AI-related inventions, for example, the method of invention development, including the use of AI, does not impact subject matter eligibility, but the claimed invention itself must show significant human contribution and practical application[1].
Patent Landscape and Prior Art
Prior Art Search
To understand the novelty of the patent, a thorough prior art search would have been conducted. This involves searching existing patents, published patent applications, and other relevant literature to ensure the invention was new and not obvious at the time of filing. Tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search and Global Dossier would be used today to conduct such searches[4].
International Patent Considerations
The patent landscape is not limited to the United States. International patent databases, such as those provided by the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), would be consulted to ensure the invention was novel globally[4].
Economic and Legal Implications
Economic Impact
Patents like 4,946,687 can have significant economic implications. They can provide a competitive advantage to the patent holder by preventing others from using the same invention without permission. This can lead to increased innovation and investment in research and development.
Legal Considerations
The legal framework surrounding patents is complex. Each claim of a patent is presumed valid independently of the validity of other claims, as per 35 USC 282. This means that even if some claims are invalidated, others may still remain valid[5].
Real-World Applications and Benefits
Practical Utility
The patent's real-world application is crucial for its validity and value. The method and apparatus described in the patent would need to demonstrate practical utility, such as improving the efficiency or reliability of data distribution in distributed computing systems.
Case Studies and Examples
For modern AI-related patents, examples like those provided in the 2024 USPTO guidance update are illustrative. For instance, a claim involving an artificial neural network designed to identify anomalies would need to show how it improves computer technology in a practical way to be considered patent-eligible[1].
Key Takeaways
- Claims Construction: Clear and concise claims are essential for defining the scope of the patent.
- Patent Eligibility: The invention must integrate judicial exceptions into practical applications to be patent-eligible.
- Prior Art: Thorough searches are necessary to ensure novelty and non-obviousness.
- International Considerations: Global patent databases must be consulted to ensure global novelty.
- Economic and Legal Implications: Patents can provide significant economic advantages and are subject to complex legal frameworks.
FAQs
What is the main focus of United States Patent 4,946,687?
The main focus of the patent is a method and apparatus for controlling the distribution of data in a distributed data processing system.
How do modern patent eligibility criteria affect AI-related inventions?
Modern criteria focus on whether the claimed invention integrates a judicial exception into a practical application, with the method of invention development, including AI, not impacting subject matter eligibility[1].
What tools are available for conducting prior art searches?
Tools include the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and international patent databases like those from the EPO, JPO, and WIPO[4].
Why is practical utility important for patent validity?
Practical utility is crucial because it demonstrates that the invention provides concrete benefits and solves specific problems in the relevant field, making it more likely to be considered patent-eligible[1].
How does the legal framework support the validity of patent claims?
Each claim of a patent is presumed valid independently of the validity of other claims, as per 35 USC 282[5].
Sources
- Understanding the 2024 USPTO Guidance Update on AI Patent - Mintz
- U.S. Patent Small Claims Court - ACUS
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- Search for patents - USPTO
- 35 USC 282: Presumption of validity; defenses - US Code House
