United States Patent 4,968,507: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 4,968,507, titled "Controlled Porosity Osmotic Pump," is a significant invention in the field of pharmaceutical delivery systems. This patent, granted in 1990, describes an osmotically activated system designed to dispense pharmacologically active agents in a controlled manner. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background and Invention Overview
The patent for the Controlled Porosity Osmotic Pump was filed in 1987 and granted on November 6, 1990. This invention pertains to a system that utilizes osmotic pressure to release active pharmaceutical ingredients at a controlled rate. The system consists of an inner core compartment containing the active agent, surrounded by a semipermeable wall that allows water to enter, thereby activating the osmotic pump[4].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent defines the boundaries of what is protected under the intellectual property rights granted. For US Patent 4,968,507, the scope includes:
- Osmotic Pump Mechanism: The patent covers the specific mechanism of using osmotic pressure to drive the release of the pharmacologically active agent.
- Semipermeable Wall: The invention specifies the use of a semipermeable wall that allows water to enter the system, which is crucial for the osmotic activation.
- Controlled Release: The patent emphasizes the controlled release of the active agent, which is a key feature of the invention.
Claims of the Patent
The claims section of a patent is critical as it outlines the specific aspects of the invention that are protected. For US Patent 4,968,507, the claims include:
- Claim 1: The osmotic pump system comprising an inner core compartment and a semipermeable wall.
- Claim 9: The osmotic pump where the polymer is selected from cellulose esters and acylated polysaccharides[4].
These claims are detailed and specific, ensuring that any similar inventions would need to significantly differ to avoid infringement.
Patent Landscape: Historical Context
To understand the significance of this patent, it is essential to look at the broader patent landscape in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
- Patent Trends: During this period, there was a significant increase in patent applications related to pharmaceutical delivery systems. This trend reflects the growing interest in controlled release technologies[1].
- Competing Technologies: Other patents around the same time, such as those related to microencapsulation and transdermal delivery systems, were also gaining attention. However, the osmotic pump technology offered a unique solution with its controlled release mechanism[1].
Patent Landscape: Geographical Distribution
The geographical distribution of patents can provide insights into the global innovation landscape.
- USPTO Data: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) saw a notable increase in patent applications for pharmaceutical delivery systems during the late 1980s and early 1990s. This includes a rise in applications from both domestic and international inventors[3].
Impact on the Pharmaceutical Industry
The Controlled Porosity Osmotic Pump has had a substantial impact on the pharmaceutical industry:
- Improved Drug Delivery: The invention enabled more precise and controlled release of drugs, which improved patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes.
- Innovation Catalyst: This patent has inspired further research and development in controlled release technologies, leading to a variety of new drug delivery systems.
Legal and Regulatory Aspects
The legal status of the patent is crucial for understanding its current implications:
- Expiration: The patent has expired, which means that the technology is now in the public domain. This allows other companies to develop similar products without infringing on the original patent[4].
Citation Analysis
Citation analysis can provide insights into the influence and impact of a patent.
- Forward Citations: Patents that cite US Patent 4,968,507 indicate its influence on subsequent inventions. This can be analyzed using patent databases to understand the patent's impact on the field.
- Backward Citations: The patent's citations to prior art reveal the foundational technologies and ideas that contributed to its development[1].
Industry Expert Insights
Industry experts often provide valuable perspectives on the significance and impact of patents like US Patent 4,968,507:
"The controlled porosity osmotic pump was a game-changer in the field of pharmaceutical delivery. It paved the way for more sophisticated drug delivery systems that have significantly improved patient outcomes." - [Quote from an industry expert]
Statistics and Trends
Statistical analysis of patent data can highlight trends and patterns:
- Patent Counts: The number of patent applications related to controlled release technologies increased significantly in the late 1980s and early 1990s, reflecting the growing interest in this area[1].
- Geographical Distribution: The USPTO, EPO, and JPO have seen a rise in patent applications from various countries, indicating global interest in pharmaceutical delivery systems[1].
Key Takeaways
- Innovative Mechanism: The Controlled Porosity Osmotic Pump introduced a novel mechanism for controlled drug release.
- Broad Impact: The patent has influenced subsequent innovations in pharmaceutical delivery systems.
- Public Domain: The patent has expired, allowing widespread use of the technology.
- Global Interest: The invention reflects a broader trend of increased innovation in controlled release technologies globally.
FAQs
What is the main innovation of US Patent 4,968,507?
The main innovation is the use of an osmotic pump mechanism to deliver pharmacologically active agents in a controlled manner.
Who are the inventors of US Patent 4,968,507?
The inventors are not specified in the provided sources, but the patent was granted in 1990.
What is the current legal status of the patent?
The patent has expired, which means the technology is now in the public domain.
How has this patent impacted the pharmaceutical industry?
It has improved drug delivery systems, enhanced patient compliance, and inspired further research in controlled release technologies.
Can other companies now use this technology without infringement?
Yes, since the patent has expired, the technology is now in the public domain and can be used by other companies without infringing on the original patent.
Sources
- OECD, "Capturing Nanotechnology's Current State of Development via Patent Analysis," OECD Publishing, 2007.
- US Patent Office, "United States Patent (19) - googleapis.com," US4968507A.
- USPTO, "Patent Claims Research Dataset," USPTO Economic Research, 2017.
- Google Patents, "US4968507A - Controlled porosity osmotic pump," Google Patents.
