United States Patent 5,216,167: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 5,216,167, titled "Phenylacetic acid benzylamides," is a significant patent in the field of organic chemistry, particularly in the synthesis and application of phenylacetic acid derivatives. This article will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
Publication Number and Authority
The patent, numbered US5216167A, was published under the authority of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)[2].
Prior Art and Legal Status
The patent was filed on July 24, 1990, and granted on June 1, 1993. The legal status indicates that the patent has ceased, meaning it is no longer in force, likely due to the expiration of its term or non-payment of maintenance fees[2].
Scope of the Invention
Background and Purpose
The invention pertains to a class of compounds known as phenylacetic acid benzylamides, which are synthesized through specific chemical reactions. These compounds have potential applications in various fields, including pharmaceuticals and agricultural chemicals.
Detailed Description
The patent provides a detailed description of the synthesis process, including the reactants, conditions, and steps involved in producing these benzylamides. It also outlines the structural characteristics and properties of the resulting compounds[2].
Claims
Independent and Dependent Claims
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims are categorized into independent and dependent claims. Independent claims stand alone and define the invention broadly, while dependent claims build upon the independent claims and provide more specific details.
- Independent Claims: These typically describe the general structure of the phenylacetic acid benzylamides, including the core molecular framework and functional groups.
- Dependent Claims: These claims specify particular variations of the compounds, such as specific substituents or modifications to the core structure[2].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Applications
To understand the broader patent landscape, it is essential to identify related patents and applications. This can be done using tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search or international databases such as the European Patent Office's (EPO) esp@cenet or the World Intellectual Property Organization's (WIPO) PATENTSCOPE[1].
Citation Analysis
Citation analysis can provide insights into the influence of this patent on subsequent inventions. By examining backward citations (citations to prior art) and forward citations (citations by later patents), one can trace the development of related technologies. Tools like the Common Citation Document (CCD) can consolidate citation data from multiple patent offices, facilitating this analysis[1].
International Patent Family
The patent landscape also includes the international patent family, which comprises related applications filed in other countries. Using services like the Global Dossier, one can access file histories and related applications from participating IP offices, providing a comprehensive view of the global patent family[1].
Classification and Searchability
Patent Classification
The USPTO and other patent offices use classification systems to categorize patents. For example, the EPO has specific classes for nanotechnology (Y01N) and other specialized fields. While the specific classification for US5216167A is not detailed here, it would fall under relevant chemical or pharmaceutical classifications[4].
Search Resources
To find similar patents or to conduct a thorough search, resources such as the USPTO's Public Search Facility, Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs), and online databases like Google Patents are invaluable. These resources provide access to patent documents, sequences, and other relevant data[1].
Economic and Social Impact
Research and Development
Patents like US5216167A are direct outputs of research and development activities. Analyzing such patents can provide insights into the trends and impacts of scientific and technological advancements. For instance, the OECD uses patent analysis to understand the development and socio-economic impacts of fields like nanotechnology[4].
Industry Applications
The compounds described in this patent have potential applications in various industries. For example, they could be used in the development of new pharmaceuticals or as intermediates in chemical synthesis. Understanding the patent landscape helps companies navigate the intellectual property environment and identify opportunities for innovation and collaboration.
Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope: The patent covers the synthesis and structural characteristics of phenylacetic acid benzylamides.
- Claims: The patent includes independent and dependent claims that define the invention and its variations.
- Patent Landscape: The broader landscape includes related patents, international patent families, and citation analysis.
- Classification and Searchability: The patent is classified under relevant chemical or pharmaceutical categories and can be searched using various resources.
- Economic and Social Impact: The patent reflects research and development activities and has potential applications in multiple industries.
FAQs
What is the main subject of United States Patent 5,216,167?
The main subject of this patent is the synthesis and properties of phenylacetic acid benzylamides.
How can I search for related patents?
You can use resources like the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Google Patents, or international databases such as the EPO's esp@cenet or WIPO's PATENTSCOPE.
What is the significance of citation analysis in patent research?
Citation analysis helps in tracing the influence of a patent on subsequent inventions and understanding the development of related technologies.
How can I access international patent family information for this patent?
You can use the Global Dossier service provided by the USPTO to access file histories and related applications from participating IP offices.
What are the potential applications of the compounds described in this patent?
The compounds have potential applications in pharmaceuticals, agricultural chemicals, and as intermediates in chemical synthesis.
