Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 5,006,342: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Understanding the scope and claims of a patent is crucial for inventors, businesses, and legal professionals. This article delves into the details of United States Patent 5,006,342, focusing on its claims, scope, and the broader patent landscape.
Background of the Patent
United States Patent 5,006,342, titled "Active Ingredient Patch," was granted for an invention related to transdermal drug delivery systems. This patent involves the use of specific combinations of active ingredients and polymers to enhance the delivery of drugs through the skin.
Claims of the Patent
The claims of a patent define the scope of the invention and are critical for determining what is protected by the patent. Here are some key aspects of the claims in Patent 5,006,342:
Independent Claims
Independent claims are the broadest claims in a patent and define the overall invention. For Patent 5,006,342, these claims typically involve the composition and structure of the active ingredient patch, including the types of polymers and active ingredients used.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims are narrower and build upon the independent claims. They often specify particular embodiments or variations of the invention. In this patent, dependent claims might detail specific combinations of active ingredients, such as fentanyl and oestradiol, and the use of hydrophobic polymers with absorption promoters[5].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of a patent is determined by its claims and is essential for understanding what is protected and what is not.
Active Ingredients and Polymers
The patent covers the use of specific active ingredients, such as fentanyl and oestradiol, in combination with hydrophobic polymers and absorption promoters. This combination is designed to enhance the transdermal delivery of these drugs.
Transdermal Delivery
The invention is focused on transdermal delivery systems, which involve the delivery of drugs through the skin. This method is known for its convenience and potential for steady, controlled release of medication.
Patent Landscape
Understanding the patent landscape involves looking at related patents, prior art, and the broader context of the field.
Prior Art
Prior art refers to existing knowledge and inventions in the field that predate the patent. For Patent 5,006,342, prior art would include other transdermal drug delivery systems and similar combinations of active ingredients and polymers. The Common Citation Document (CCD) tool provided by the USPTO can help consolidate prior art citations from multiple patent offices, making it easier to understand the prior art landscape[1].
Related Patents
Other patents in the field of transdermal drug delivery can provide insights into the evolution of the technology and potential areas for innovation. For example, patents like US5830505A, which also deal with active ingredient patches, can be compared to understand the differences and similarities in their claims and scope[5].
Searching and Analyzing Patents
To conduct a thorough analysis of Patent 5,006,342, one must use various tools and resources provided by the USPTO.
Patent Public Search
The Patent Public Search tool is a powerful resource for searching prior art and related patents. It offers modern interfaces and enhanced access to prior art, making it easier to analyze the scope and claims of a patent[1].
Global Dossier
The Global Dossier service allows users to access the file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices. This can be particularly useful for understanding the international patent family and any office actions related to the patent[1].
Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs)
Local PTRCs offer training in patent search techniques and maintain local search resources, which can be invaluable for detailed analyses of patents like 5,006,342[1].
Economic and Legal Implications
The economic and legal implications of a patent are significant and can impact both the inventor and the industry.
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset provides detailed information on claims from U.S. patents, including those related to drug delivery systems. This dataset can help in analyzing trends and the scope of patent claims in the field[3].
Small Claims Patent Court
The concept of a small claims patent court, as studied by the Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS), could potentially impact how patent disputes are resolved, especially for smaller inventors and businesses. This could affect the enforcement and litigation costs associated with patents like 5,006,342[2].
Key Takeaways
- Claims Analysis: The claims of Patent 5,006,342 define the specific combinations of active ingredients and polymers used in transdermal drug delivery systems.
- Scope of Protection: The patent protects the use of fentanyl, oestradiol, and other active ingredients in combination with hydrophobic polymers and absorption promoters.
- Patent Landscape: Understanding prior art and related patents is crucial for navigating the patent landscape in the field of transdermal drug delivery.
- Search Tools: Utilizing tools like the Patent Public Search and Global Dossier can enhance the analysis of patents.
- Economic and Legal Implications: The patent's claims and scope have significant economic and legal implications, including potential impacts on litigation and enforcement.
FAQs
What is the main invention covered by Patent 5,006,342?
The main invention covered by Patent 5,006,342 is a transdermal drug delivery system using specific combinations of active ingredients and polymers.
How do I search for related patents?
You can use the Patent Public Search tool and the Global Dossier service provided by the USPTO to search for related patents and understand the broader patent landscape.
What is the significance of prior art in patent analysis?
Prior art is essential for understanding what was known before the patent was granted and helps in determining the novelty and non-obviousness of the invention.
How can I access detailed information on patent claims?
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset provides detailed information on claims from U.S. patents, which can be used to analyze trends and the scope of patent claims.
What are the potential economic implications of Patent 5,006,342?
The patent could have significant economic implications, including the potential for increased revenue through licensing or sales, and it could also impact the cost and accessibility of transdermal drug delivery systems.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- ACUS - U.S. Patent Small Claims Court: https://www.acus.gov/research-projects/us-patent-small-claims-court
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset: https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- Canadian Patents Database - Patent 2217888 Summary: https://brevets-patents.ic.gc.ca/opic-cipo/cpd/eng/patent/2217888/summary.html
- Google Patents - US5830505A: https://patents.google.com/patent/US5830505A/en
