United States Patent 5,366,972: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 5,366,972, titled "5,11-dihydro-6H-dipyrido[3,2-b; 2',3'-e][1,4]diazepines," is a patent that discloses novel compounds useful in the prevention or treatment of HIV infection. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
Publication Number and Authority
The patent, numbered US5,366,972A, was granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). It is part of the US patent system, which is one of the most robust and well-established in the world[1].
Prior Art and Background
The patent describes a class of compounds known as 5,11-dihydro-6H-dipyrido[3,2-b; 2',3'-e][1,4]diazepines. These compounds are synthesized and tested for their efficacy in preventing or treating HIV infection. The prior art keywords include terms like "methyl," "dihydro," "ethyl," "dipyrido," and "diazepin," indicating the chemical nature of the invention[4].
Legal Status
As of the current date, the patent has expired, marking the end of its lifetime. This means that the patented compounds and methods are now in the public domain and can be freely used without infringing on the original patent[4].
Scope of the Patent
Claims
The patent includes a set of claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims typically include:
- Composition of Matter Claims: These claims define the specific chemical compounds that are the subject of the invention.
- Method of Use Claims: These claims describe how the compounds can be used to prevent or treat HIV infection.
- Method of Manufacture Claims: These claims outline the processes for synthesizing the compounds.
Each claim must be novel, non-obvious, and useful to be valid under U.S. patent law[2].
Detailed Claim Analysis
The claims in this patent would typically include specific structural formulas of the 5,11-dihydro-6H-dipyrido[3,2-b; 2',3'-e][1,4]diazepines, their derivatives, and any specific methods for their synthesis or use. For example, a claim might specify a particular compound and its use in treating HIV infection.
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Patent Families
The patent landscape includes other patents related to HIV treatment and the specific class of compounds disclosed. Using tools like the Global Dossier provided by the USPTO, one can identify patent families and related applications filed at participating IP Offices. This helps in understanding the broader context and any potential overlaps or conflicts with other patents[1].
Common Citation Document (CCD)
The Common Citation Document (CCD) application can be used to consolidate prior art citations from multiple patent offices, providing a single point of access to citation data. This is particularly useful for understanding how different patent offices have treated similar inventions and identifying potential prior art that could affect the validity of the patent[1].
Search and Research Tools
USPTO Public Search Facility
For detailed research, the USPTO Public Search Facility in Alexandria, VA, provides access to patent and trademark information in various formats, including online, microfilm, and print. Trained staff are available to assist in searching and analyzing patents like US5,366,972A[1].
Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs)
Local PTRCs also maintain search resources and may offer training in patent search techniques, which can be invaluable for conducting a thorough analysis of the patent landscape[1].
Economic and Research Implications
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset provides detailed information on claims from U.S. patents, including those related to pharmaceuticals. This dataset can help in analyzing trends and the scope of patent claims over time, offering insights into the economic and research implications of patents like US5,366,972A[3].
Litigation and Enforcement
Patent Infringement and Validity
While US5,366,972A is no longer in force, understanding the principles of patent infringement and validity is crucial. Cases like the one involving DDR Holdings and NLG illustrate how patent claims can be challenged and defended in court. For instance, claims can be challenged for anticipation, obviousness, or indefiniteness under U.S. patent law[2].
Conclusion
United States Patent 5,366,972 represents a significant contribution to the field of HIV treatment through the disclosure of novel compounds. Understanding its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape is essential for researchers, pharmaceutical companies, and legal professionals.
Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope: The patent covers specific compounds and their use in treating HIV infection.
- Claims Analysis: The claims define the invention's boundaries, including composition, method of use, and method of manufacture.
- Patent Landscape: Tools like the Global Dossier and CCD help in identifying related patents and prior art.
- Research Tools: USPTO facilities and PTRCs are valuable resources for detailed patent research.
- Economic Implications: The Patent Claims Research Dataset provides insights into patent trends and economic implications.
FAQs
Q: What is the current legal status of US Patent 5,366,972?
A: The patent has expired, meaning it is no longer in force and the disclosed compounds and methods are in the public domain.
Q: How can I find related patents to US5,366,972A?
A: Using the Global Dossier and Common Citation Document (CCD) tools provided by the USPTO can help identify related patents and patent families.
Q: What are the key components of the claims in US Patent 5,366,972?
A: The claims typically include composition of matter, method of use, and method of manufacture claims that define the scope of the invention.
Q: Where can I access detailed information on patent claims like those in US5,366,972A?
A: The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset and the Public Search Facility are valuable resources for accessing detailed information on patent claims.
Q: How do I determine if a patent like US5,366,972A is valid or has been infringed?
A: Determining validity and infringement involves analyzing the claims against prior art and comparing them with potentially infringing activities, often requiring legal expertise and tools like the CCD.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- DDR Holdings - United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit: https://cafc.uscourts.gov/opinions-orders/13-1505.opinion.12-3-2014.1.pdf
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset: https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- Google Patents - US5366972A: https://patents.google.com/patent/US5366972A/en
