Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 5,223,510
Introduction
United States Patent 5,223,510, titled "Alkylaminoalkyl derivatives of benzofuran, benzothiophene, indole and indolizine, process for their preparation and compositions containing them," is a patent that covers a range of chemical compounds and their applications. Here, we will delve into the key components of this patent, including its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape.
Patent Structure and Components
Document Number and Type
The patent number, US5223510A, indicates that this is a U.S. patent. The "A" suffix signifies that it is the first publication of the patent application[1].
Title and Abstract
The title of the patent is descriptive, highlighting the specific chemical derivatives it covers. The abstract provides a brief, non-technical description of the invention, which includes the preparation and use of these compounds, particularly in the treatment of cardiovascular system pathological syndromes[4].
Field of Search and Classifications
The patent is classified under specific categories, such as the International Patent Classification (IPC) and the U.S. National Classification system. These classifications help in identifying the technical field to which the invention pertains and facilitate prior art searches[1].
Inventors, Applicants, and Assignees
The patent lists the inventors, the applicant who filed the patent application, and the assignee who owns the patent at the time of issuance. This information is crucial for understanding the ownership and rights associated with the patent[1].
Claims
Definition and Purpose
The claims section is a critical part of any patent, as it defines the scope of protection for the invention. The claims must be clear, distinct, and particularly point out the subject matter regarded as the invention by the applicant[2].
Claim Structure
For US5223510A, the claims would typically include independent and dependent claims. Independent claims stand alone and define the invention in broad terms, while dependent claims further limit the scope of the independent claims. Each claim must be read in the context of the full claim and the specification to understand the invention's scope[2].
Example of Claim Language
While the specific claims of US5223510A are not detailed here, they would likely describe the chemical structures, preparation methods, and uses of the alkylaminoalkyl derivatives. For instance, a claim might specify:
- "A compound of formula I, wherein R represents a --SO2R' group and R' represents hydrogen."
- "A pharmaceutical composition containing at least one compound of formula I and a suitable excipient or pharmaceutical vehicle."
Specification
Detailed Description
The specification provides a detailed written description of the invention, including the related prior art, descriptions of the drawings, how the invention solves a specific technical problem, and the preferred embodiment of the invention. It must be detailed enough so that anyone of ordinary skill in the same technical field can understand and replicate the invention[1].
Preparation Methods and Uses
For US5223510A, the specification would include methods for preparing the alkylaminoalkyl derivatives, their pharmacological properties, and their potential uses in treating cardiovascular diseases. It would also describe the pharmaceutical compositions and the dosages for human use[4].
Drawings and Illustrations
Technical Details
The drawings section contains black and white drawings that illustrate the technical details of the invention. While not explicitly mentioned for this patent, drawings could include chemical structures, synthesis pathways, or other relevant technical illustrations[1].
Patent Landscape
Patent Scope and Quality
The scope of a patent is a critical aspect of patent quality. Metrics such as independent claim length and count can be used to measure patent scope. Narrower claims are often associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process[3].
Litigation and Validity
Patent claims must be definite and clear to avoid issues of indefiniteness, which can lead to invalidation. The case of Maxell, Ltd. v. Amperex Technology Limited highlights the importance of clear claim language and the consequences of indefinite claims[2].
Industry Impact
Patents like US5223510A can significantly impact the pharmaceutical industry by providing exclusive rights to the inventors or assignees for a specified period. This can influence innovation, licensing, and litigation within the industry. For instance, the compounds described in this patent have shown promising pharmacological properties, which could lead to further research and development in cardiovascular treatments[4].
Key Takeaways
- Clear Claims: The claims section is crucial and must be clear and distinct to define the scope of protection.
- Detailed Specification: The specification must provide enough detail for someone skilled in the field to understand and replicate the invention.
- Patent Scope: The scope of the patent, measured by metrics like claim length and count, can impact the patent's validity and examination process.
- Industry Impact: Patents in the pharmaceutical sector can drive innovation and influence the development of new treatments.
FAQs
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What is the significance of the claims section in a patent?
The claims section defines the scope of protection for the invention, making it a critical part of the patent.
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How does the specification section contribute to the patent?
The specification provides a detailed written description of the invention, ensuring that it can be understood and replicated by those skilled in the field.
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What metrics are used to measure patent scope?
Metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count are used to measure patent scope.
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Why is claim clarity important?
Claim clarity is essential to avoid issues of indefiniteness, which can lead to the invalidation of the patent.
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How can patents like US5223510A impact the pharmaceutical industry?
Patents like US5223510A can drive innovation, influence licensing agreements, and affect litigation within the pharmaceutical industry.
Sources
- Guides.library.queensu.ca - How to Read a U.S. Patent - Patents and Designs - Research Guides
- CAFC.uscourts.gov - MAXELL, LTD. v. AMPEREX TECHNOLOGY LIMITED
- Hoover.org - Patent Claims and Patent Scope - Hoover Institution
- Google Patents - US5223510A - Alkylaminoalkyl derivatives of benzofuran, benzothiophene, indole and indolizine, process for their preparation and compositions containing them
- PubChem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov - Alkylaminoalkyl derivatives of benzofuran, benzothiophene, indole ...
